New Delhi: Ipswich Town defender Axel Tuanzebe is set to miss his team’s upcoming Premier League fixtures following a freak household accident that put him at risk of losing a thumb. While doing chores, Tuanzebe suffered a horrific incident that has sidelined him for the foreseeable future.
The 26-year-old DR Congo international also missed last weekend’s 4-1 defeat to West Ham, a result that left Ipswich Town in 17th place heading into the international break, the side still searching for their first win since returning to the top flight. Tuanzebe had started the first six matches of the season for the Tractor Boys before being sidelined for the West Ham game.
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna revealed the same and said his injury was a “very unfortunate incident”. He added, “ He’s naturally a miss with the way he’s started the season. He’s going to be out for a little while.”
How it happened and its impact
The incident occurred when a glass smashed one of the shards causing a deep cut to the former Manchester United player, sparking concerns that he could lose his thumb. The outcome was averted by a swift medical response resulting in operation but a quick return to the field for the Tuanzebe appears unlikely.
Since signing on a free transfer in September, Tuanzebe has enjoyed a positive start to the season. Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler even praised his defensive performance after a goalless draw between the two sides. However, this setback comes at a difficult time for Ipswich, a team searching for their first Premier League win since promotion.
The Manchester United academy graduate has already faced a difficult couple of years with loan spells at Aston Villa, Napoli, and Stoke City, and now this injury setback comes when he is in good form. Any lengthy absence would be a significant blow for Ipswich Town, who have performed reasonably well in their first seven games but are yet to secure a win.
Tuanzebe’s injury is also a blow to his promising international career. Since June, he has earned his first three caps for the Democratic Republic of the Congo, but this setback forced him to pull out of the Africa Cup of Nations qualification matches against Tanzania scheduled for this month.
Ex-Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe narrowly avoided losing a thumb in a bizarre household accident. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
