Ipswich defender Axel Tuanzebe has suffered a freak injury that will keep him on the sideline for club and country.
The accident which almost caused him his right thumb happened while he was washing up at home and he a smashed glass, which almost severe his thumb and he need surgery to save his hand.
Speaking after the West Ham game, Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna said Tuanzebe would be “out for a while”, suggesting he would certainly remain unavailable for selection beyond this international break.
The 26-year-old had started the season impressively, being singled out for praise by the Brighton manager, Fabian Hürzeler, after last month’s goalless draw between the sides, and any lengthy absence would be a significant blow for an Ipswich team who have largely performed well in their first seven games but are yet to win.
The injury is also a setback to Tuanzebe’s burgeoning international career. He has won his first three caps for the Democratic Republic of the Congo since June. He has been effectively ruled out the Africa Cup of Nations qualification double-header against Tanzania this weekend.
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