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QPR loan Nick Ward to Brighton

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Ward arrived in a blaze of glory during the summer from Aussie A-League side Perth Glory. Despite playing for just one season down under FIFA named him 15th in their list of the world`s most promising young players (Theo Walcott was 21st) and Ward himself spoke of coming to England to help him break into the Australian national set up.


Ward set himself a target of ten goals for the season and he made a terrific start with a goal in his third appearance against Southend at Loftus Road. However he was very much a Waddock player, despite Chairman Gianni Paladini`s influence in signing him originally, and when Gregory came to Loftus Road Ward`s days looked numbered.


He conceded possession for a crucial match winning goal at Sheffield Wednesday and upset the coaching staff with an incident in a friendly match at Hinckley. Although he then set up ray Jones winner at Cardiff with a terrific cross he didn`t appear to be Gregory`s cup of tea.


Ward still has 18 months of his contract left and the fact that Gregory has chosen to loan him out rather than try and negotiate a settlement suggests he may have a future at Loftus Road yet. Whether his relaxed, picking the pass, style of play will cut it in League One remains to be seen.


Brighton are managed by Ray Wilkin`s brother Dean who regularly features in the QPR Masters team.


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