Ipswich Town have lost striker Jon Walters, who has been forced to return to Burnley after picking up a serious Achilles injury.
Walters was signed on loan from Burnley, with the Irish striker returning to Portman Road on a short-term deal until January.
The 35-year-old managed three Championship appearances on his return to Ipswich, but his third outing was cut short on Saturday.
Just moments after entering the field in the 71st minute, Walters was forced to limp out of action.
Ipswich have now revealed on their official website that Walters has a partial rupture of his Achilles, and although surgery isn’t required, the striker will be out of action for six months.
Burnley will take over Walters’ rehabilitation programme, with the striker departing Ipswich after a short return to Portman Road.
Walters departs Ipswich with Paul Hurst’s side in a difficult position after nine fixtures of the Championship season.
Hurst is still awaiting his first Championship victory, with Ipswich only managing to draw five of their opening nine fixtures, losing the other four.
That leaves the Tractor Boys in the Championship’s relegation zone at this early stage of the season, with only Preston North End sitting below Ipswich.
The Verdict Â
This is a crushing blow for Ipswich, but also Walters.
The striker is at a stage of his career where he can’t afford serious injuries, so for him to receive this news will be devastating.
A loan move to Ipswich was perfect for Walters, which makes this even more frustrating.
Thoughts? Let us know!