Gerard Storey insists he has some "unfinished business" after his two-year spell with Portsmouth was called to a halt.
Storey joined the League One club in the summer of 2019, and went on to make his first-team debut in December last year in the EFL Trophy.
During his time in England he had a loan spell with Gosport Borough in the Southern Area League before returning to Northern Ireland in January to join Carrick Rangers for the remainder of the season.
After parting company with Portsmouth, the 18-year-old is now looking to the future, and another shot at full-time football across the water.
"I spoke with Portsmouth last week. We weren't able to play many games this season due to Covid, and the club were worried that something similar would unfold next season," Storey told Belfast Live.
"It is a similar situation for all the young lads. My deal was up in June so we agreed to go our separate ways. I don't want to have another stop-start season after the year I have had.
"The past year has been the hardest. I can't wait for all this to end and get started next season."
Storey added: "I am looking to the future and looking to next season.
"My main ambition is to return across the water. I am only 18 and I have a lot of time in front of me. I only have to wait another couple of months."
Storey said he enjoyed the full-time experience in England, even if his time on the pitch was limited due to Covid.
He also said the "nightmare" year hadn't dulled his appetite for another shot at professional football.
"I don't have any regrets. I don't have one regret from my whole time at Portsmouth. I wouldn't change any of it," he said.
"I made my first-team debut, which is a dream for anyone going across the water. And I want to get back there.
"I have loved every minute of it, and I don't blame anyone. This has happened to a lot of boys who are now searching for a new club.
"Portsmouth said this wasn't planned. Covid has dictated the situation, and it is tough on a lot of young players.
"I feel I have unfinished business, and I just want to put this year behind me and get back playing again next season."
