Ipswich Town midfielder Flynn Downes could be a doubt for the Tractor Boys' trip to Accrington Stanley next weekend, after picking up an injury whilst representing the England Under 20's during the international break.

Downes has established himself as a key performer under Paul Lambert, with the 20-year-old making eleven appearances for the Tractor Boys so far this term and he has formed an excellent partnership with Cole Skuse at the heart of midfield.

The 20-year-old enjoyed something of a breakthrough campaign at Portman Road last term, despite the Tractor Boys' struggles in the Championship, with the midfielder making 29 appearances and helping bring some much-needed confidence to the heart of midfield at times.

Downes' performances for Ipswich over the last year have seen him earn international recognition with the England U20's, and the midfielder came on for teammate Andre Dozzell during the second half of England U20's 3-0 victory over the Czech Republic, but he was forced off for the final ten minutes having picked up a hip injury.

Speaking to Ipswich's official club website, club physio Matt Byard suggested that the Tractor Boys will monitor the injury during the week and assess whether to involve Downes against Accrington, saying; "It’s an impact injury to his left hip.

"We will see how it settles down over the next few days before we have a clearer idea of whether he will be okay for the weekend."

The Verdict

Downes' injury will be a blow for Lambert's side ahead of their trip to Accrington, with the midfielder becoming one of the most integral parts of Ipswich's first team this season, with a string of impressive performances helping the team dominate matches in the middle of the pitch and impose their style.

The youngster has earned the full faith of Lambert, and the midfielder is flourishing alongside Skuse in midfield, managing to offer a creative presence from the middle of the pitch, as well as helping the Tractor Boys maintain a solid shape out of possession.

It will therefore be vital, that Downes regains full fitness as soon as possible, and Ipswich will be wise not to rush him back for the game against Accrington, with the 20-year-old's long-term fitness important to their chances of maintaining their excellent start to the campaign.