Portsmouth youngster back at Fratton Park following unsuccessful Weymouth loan

The striker has returned to Fratton Park after just 10 appearances for the struggling Terras, who sit bottom of National League South.

The 18-year-old failed to score or record an assist in that time as he registered just 395 minutes of football.

He joins fellow loanee Noa Boutin, from AFC Bournemouth, in leaving the Bob Lucas Stadium.

Confirming Gifford’s exit, new Weymouth boss Bobby Wilkinson told dorsetecho.co.uk: ‘I've sent Dan back to Portsmouth. His loan deal expired on Monday I didn't renew it.

‘He's a promising striker with so much ability. The problem is we're in a dog fight at the moment.

‘We're trying to go with a little bit more experience.

‘He's been a credit to work with and I wish him every bit of luck on his journey.’

Gifford joined Wemyouth in the summer after scoring in a trial game against Dorchester.

He was signed by David Oldham, who lost his job at the Terras in September following the club’s worst start to a season in their 132-year history.