This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Ipswich Town manager Paul Lambert has been hit with a pre-season blow after midfielder Tristan Nydam broke his ankle in a friendly, an injury that will keep the youngster out of action for six months, it has been confirmed on the club website.

Nydam who spent part of last season on loan in Scotland with St Johnstone, will require surgery on the injury having been stretchered off during the second half of a 1-1 draw at Notts County earlier this week.

So how big a blow is the loss of Nydam to the Tractor Boys?

We discuss.........

George Dagless

"A considerable blow.

"Losing any player for that amount of time is an issue without doubt and you'd argue that Nydam could have had a big season at the club.

"Paul Lambert will want to see his side at full strength this season as they look to bounce back and yet they have now been given this raw deal.

"It's a real shame for all involved but it does at least provide an opportunity for someone else to come in and do a job - let's see if anyone is able to step up and get things going."

Gary Hutchinson

“As upsetting as it is for the youngster, I’m not sure this is a huge blow in the strictest sense.

“Of course it’s damaging, he’s a talented kid on the fringes of the first team. League One would afford him the time and space to develop as a player and maybe get senior football under his belt.

“However, what have they actually lost? He played once in the Championship last season and although he’s featured in pre-season, it’s likely he would have been a squad player.

“In terms of losing a young talent, it’s a knock. In terms of the first team picture, it’s a minor setback.”

George Brooks

"I think this is a considerable blow for Ipswich, especially when you consider the potential Nydam had shown in pre-season and the fact that they already have several players on the sidelines.

"Nydam is a promising young player and had impressed for Ipswich at left-back during their pre-season friendlies so far.

"He had been pushing for a place in the starting XI for the opening game of the season, but he is now set to miss over six months of the campaign.

"Even if he didn't start for Ipswich every week, he would have been a very useful option for Paul Lambert to call upon from the bench this coming season.

"It's another name to add to a long list of injuries for Ipswich and there's a chance that Lambert could start the season without ten players - that has to be considered a concern."