Injury Update: Town receives double injury boost ahead of Hull match

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has confirmed that George Hirst and Wes Burns could return to the matchday squad for Saturday’s meeting with Hull City at the MKM Stadium (8pm).

The striker last appeared for the Blues on Boxing Day against Leicester City at Portman Road, but was forced off in the first half due to a hamstring injury, while Burns was replaced in the 38th minute of Town’s 6-0 victory against Sheffield Wednesday on March 16 due to a hamstring ailment.

Hirst needed surgery in January, forcing Town to sign reinforcements during the transfer window, namely Kieffer Moore and Ali Al-Hamadi.

The Blues travel to Liam Rosenior’s play-off-chasing squad, which is third in the Sky Bet Championship league, ahead of Leeds United’s encounter at QPR tomorrow night. McKenna’s side is currently one point behind the second-placed Whites – with a game in hand – and five points behind leaders Leicester City, who defeated Southampton 5-0 on Tuesday.

The return of the offensive combination is a significant boost for Town ahead of what they hope will be their final three games of the season.

“They (Hirst and Burns) both trained this week with the group, so as it stands if they come through the morning, both will travel to Hull so that’s a good positive for us,” stated the manager of the club.

The return of the attacking duo is a huge boost for Town ahead of, what they hope will be, their final three matches of the campaign.

“They (Hirst and Burns) both trained this week with the group, so as it stands if they come through the morning, both will travel to Hull so that’s a good positive for us,” said the Blues boss.

“(It’s) a major lift. They’re two crucial players for us, individuals who have played a significant role in the club while also possessing distinct characteristics.

“Hopefully they can play a good part in the next week.”

On Hirst, McKenna said: “Let’s see. He’s been out for quite a long period of time but he’s a fit boy, he’s trained for a good period of time now and we’re not going to save anything back in the last week.

“Like all the other players, he’s raring to have a big part to play in the last week, so it’s good to have him back again.

🎥 "We've tried to make it work in our favour."

Kieran McKenna on an extended break for Town and Saturday's trip to Yorkshire.

— Ipswich Town (@IpswichTown) April 25, 2024

“The contribution right across the squad is going to be important. Three games in a quick space of time. We’re going to need different people to step up at different times, that’s why we’ve got a strong squad here.”

McKenna also confirmed goalkeeper Cieran Slicker (ankle sprain) has returned to first-team training.