MAZ Kouhyar has returned to Vanarama National League North side Hereford FC on an initial one-month loan from York City.

The move will see the Afghan international return to Edgar Street, three years on from a successful stint with the club that saw him play a part in the side that reached the 2021 FA Trophy Final before an eventual 3-1 defeat to Hornchurch.

Kouhyar began his career with Walsall, for whom he went on to make 33 appearances in Sky Bet League One before his progress was halted by a long-term ACL injury.

After a two-year absence from football, he made his return with the Bulls, going on to make over 20 appearances in 2021-22.

The 26-year-old made the switch to the Minstermen on a free transfer in March 2022, going on to score the second goal in their Play-off Final victory over Boston United that May.

And having gained regular game time under both John Askey and David Webb last term, the midfielder became one of a number of players to extend their deals at the LNER Community Stadium, penning a two-and-a-half year contract in January 2023.

However, 2023-24 has proved to be rather a stop-start season for Kouhyar, who, despite battling with injury, has scored three goals in 20 appearances for City this season.

His most recent came in the form of a sublime finish in the Minstermen's 2-2 draw with Solihull Moors in September, having also netted against both Dorking Wanderers and Southend United.

But after enjoying a run of games throughout November and December, he has not featured for Neal Ardley's side since Boxing Day's 1-1 stalemate at Gateshead.

Hereford currently occupy sixth place in the National League North, having won 13 of their 28 matches thus far.

Kouhyar could make his debut as early as tonight's visit to Rushall Olympic.