A knee injury has ended Billy Chadwick's loan spell with Linfield.
Blues boss David Healy confirmed that Chadwick has returned to Hull City after picking up an an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the recent 2-1 defeat to Crusaders.
The 21-year-old - who scored six goals in 20 appearances for the champions - will now undergo treatment back in England.
Healy told the club's website: "Billy's loan spell was due to end in early January and so this unfortunate injury has brought about a premature end to his playing career with us.
"We are all so disappointed for Billy and we want to wish him a full and speedy recovery. He was a popular player who fitted in well with the squad and we will keep in contact with him to learn of his progress during his rehab.
"It's a really disappointing way for his loan spell to be brought to an end and I want to thank Billy for his contribution over the past few months.
"We look forward to the day when Billy is back to full fitness and able to resume his playing career."
Chadwick said he was "gutted" to be leaving Linfield early because of injury.
He said: "I'm so gutted that my time with Linfield has been cut short, due to this unfortunate injury and I would just like to thank everyone associated with Linfield for the time I’ve spent at the club.
"It’s such an amazing club with many amazing people. I wish nothing but success for all the boys and fans for the remainder of the season and beyond.
"Thank you for everything and I will aim to get back to fitness and playing again as soon as I possibly can."
