Neroca are currently on 31 points from 16 games but second-placed Minerva Punjab FC have played two games less and have 29 in their kitty.
Australian attacking midfielder Ward, who replaced Kyrgyzstani left winger Akhlidin Israilov in the squad, is expected to arrive in Imphal on Saturday morning, the official said.
"It is likely that he will play against Mohun Bagan. The coach has been craving for a striker and that's why we got him for the last few games," the official, requesting anonymity, told IANS over phone.
Aussie midfielder Aryn Williams netted the winner in Neroca's 1-0 win over Churchill in their last game at home and the Manipur club would want to continue the run and push for the title triumph.
Ward will be joining Neroca from the National Premier Leagues Victoria side Bentleigh Greens.
The A-League winner with Melbourne Victory had an Anterior Cruciate Ligament tear in 2015 when he signed for Western Sydney Wanderers.
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