DEPARTING star Michael Duffy paid a fond farewell tribute to Alloa Athletic as he returns to parent club Celtic following a successful loan spell in the Wee County.

The young forward was humbled as he collected the Alloa Advertiser player of the year trophy and admits he has enjoyed every minute of his time with the Clackmannanshire outfit.

The youngster had a moment to remember in the 1-1 draw at Ibrox two weeks ago and now hopes to build on the experiences he has gained in his loan spell.

Duffy told Advertiser sport: “I have enjoyed every second of my time at Alloa. The last six months especially have been really enjoyable despite how things ended up for us. We had some tough spells and I still think we deserved a bit more than what we got in the end, but I have so many great memories to take away and I am really happy I came to the club. It is a great club, the fans have all been amazing with me and I wish them all the best next season. It has been amazing for my development to come here and play for almost the entire season.

“I only missed a handful of games so I am really happy about that. I think have really came into my own in the last six months especially. Jack played me in role role that allowed me to play to my strengths and I have really enjoyed working with the manager. You don't have to ask me my favourite moment in my time here because it was definitely my goal at Ibrox. I am delighted with the awards I have received because it is great for my own confidence to know that other people have recognised the hard work I have put in so I am delighted with it.”

Duffy reckons his game has improved for working with Wasps gaffer Jack Ross and so he believes the club can bounce straight back up next season with the manager at the helm.

He said: “I feel like my game has improved a lot from working under Jack Ross. I had a really good relationship with him and he would talk to me a lot about various situations so that kind of support as a young player is vital and I can't thank him enough for that. I think he will achieve great things at the club next season. I firmly believe the club can bounce straight back up next season because we were unlucky in a lot of games. If Jack can retain the majority of the boys and then add some new blood then there is no reason why they won't be right back in contention for promotion.

“I still have two years at Celtic now, but with the new manager coming in, it is just a case of wating to see what will happen now. Whether I get my chance or I have to go back out on loan, regardless I can go back there for pre season in a positive frame of mind and hopefully they can see the qualities that I have.”

Meanwhile, The young Celt received his award at the club's annual Player of the Year night organised by the 1878 Supporters club. The fans organised a special 'Duffy guard of honour' as he came up to collect his award in tribute to his Ibrox protest. The other awards given out on the night at the well attended event were as follows:

Duffle Forum Player of the Year: Jason Marr

Player of the Year: Jason Marr

Young Player of the Year: Declan McDonald

Top goalscorer: Iain Flannigan

Goal of the season: Graeme Holmes

Advertiser Sport Player of the Year: Michael Duffy