Former Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe had to undergo surgery to save his thumb after a serious injury sustained while washing up.
Tuanzebe, who has been a regular starter for Ipswich in every Premier League match this season, was noticeably absent from Saturday’s game against West Ham. The 26-year old-played a crucial role in Ipswich’s promotion from the Championship and his absence was felt at the London Stadium, where Kieran McKenna’s side suffered a 4-1 defeat.
Post-match, the Ipswich boss revealed that Tuanzebe was unavailable due to a “very unfortunate accident” resulting in a hand injury. According to the Daily Mail, the right-back injured himself while doing household chores.
The incident occurred when a glass Tuenzebe was cleaning shattered glass in his hands, causing a laceration. He needed immediate medical attention, but fortunately, he didn’t lose his thumb and the surgery was successful.
It is yet to be determined how long Tuanzebe will be out of action. It seems unlikely that Ipswich will have him back by October 19, when they face Everton in a crucial match at the bottom of the Premier League table.
McKenna’s side are still seeking their first league win and he acknowledged that Tuanzebe’s absence will be felt.
“He’s done a hand injury, a very unfortunate accident,” he commented on Saturday. “He’s had surgery and will be out for a while. It’s not going to be a couple of weeks, probably longer. There are still discussions with the specialists.
“He’s naturally a miss with the way he’s started the season. He’s going to be out for a little while. We’re going to have to adjust and regroup as a team.”
Tuanzebe joined Ipswich in September 2023 following his time on loan at Stoke City from United. Having risen through the ranks of the United academy and shown potential, he managed only 37 appearances for the first team alongside three loan stints at Aston Villa, including periods at Napoli and Stoke.
Now well-integrated with Ipswich, who locked him down with a year’s contract extension over the summer, Tuanzebe is focused on a swift recovery from his hand injury.
Footballers sustaining injuries under unusual circumstances isn’t unheard of; Dave Beasant once injured a tendon in his toe due to a salad cream bottle accident, and goalkeeper Richard Wright hurt his ankle while stowing away suitcases in the loft.
Following a heavy defeat to West Ham, previously without a home win until Saturday’s game, McKenna is facing significant challenges during the international break. He commented, “Everyone is out there with the right intent but it is how we cover each action,” adding, “I don’t think it is anything we don’t know but the game can change very, very quickly for a team in our position. When you drop your level the game can get away from you very quickly.”