Ipswich Town have signed 17‑year‑old Stevenage midfielder Ryan Doherty, a promising young talent with senior experience and a strong academy background. The move strengthens the Club’s U21 setup and adds another high‑potential player to the development pathway.

Ipswich Town have completed the signing of 17‑year‑old defensive midfielder Ryan Doherty from Stevenage. The highly rated youngster arrives with a growing reputation and valuable early senior experience.
His addition strengthens the club’s U21 group and continues the focus on developing emerging talent.
Doherty made his professional debut at just 16, becoming one of Stevenage’s youngest ever players. He featured in three EFL Trophy fixtures last season and has added eight more senior appearances this campaign.
Those minutes have helped shape a midfielder known for composure and maturity.
Ryan progressed quickly through Stevenage’s academy, standing out for his technical ability and decision‑making. His development path saw him move from U16 football to senior involvement in a short space of time.
He also played a major role in Stevenage U18S’ historic FA Youth Cup run, reaching the fifth round for the first time.
“I can’t wait to get started“. “It’s a privilege to sign for such a big club, and once I knew there was interest, this was where I wanted to take the next step. Walking around the training ground and Portman Road, I really do see myself here,” expressed Ryan
The U21 setup offers Ryan a competitive environment that mirrors the demands of the first team while giving him space to grow. It’s a group built around high‑intensity football, clear pathways, and regular progression opportunities.
For a player already exposed to senior action, it provides the perfect balance of challenge and development.
Ryan steps into a U21 squad full of energy and ambition, and the timing feels right for him to make a real impression. His early senior minutes give him a strong platform, and this move offers a pathway where his game can grow quickly.
There’s genuine excitement around what he could become, and plenty of eyes will be on his progress in the months ahead.