Ipswich Town defender Axel Tuanzebe is reported to have needed surgery when he nearly lost a thumb in a freak accident while washing up.
The Premier League player was at home last week when a glass smashed and left a deep cut in his hand.
He needed urgent medical attention and surgery to save the thumb, reported the Daily Mail.
The 26-year-old has become a key player for Ipswich in their first season back in the top flight in 22 years – but now faces a lengthy period out of action.
Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna revealed Tuanzebe had missed his side’s 4-1 defeat at West Ham on Saturday after a “very unfortunate accident” and discussions were taking place with a specialist about when the player can return following surgery.
“He’s done a hand injury, a very unfortunate accident,” McKenna said after the game.
He later revealed on the club’s official channel, TownTV, it was “not a minor injury”.
“We’re not sure exactly when he’ll be back,” he added.
“They’re still assessing the timescale, but it’s going to be a significant period of time.”
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Tuanzebe joined Ipswich just over a year ago and was a member of the team which finished second in the Championship last season in a thrilling promotion-winning campaign.
The former Manchester United player’s most recent appearance for Town was in the 2-2 draw with Aston Villa at Portman Road on 29 September.
