Ipswich Town’s Sammie Szmodics has withdrawn from the Ireland squad for the third time this year due to injury, affecting his availability for their upcoming matches against Portugal and Armenia. Despite making 11 appearances for the Irish national team since his debut in 2024, Szmodics has been plagued by injuries that have hindered his contributions.
Last year, Szmodics missed summer games due to an ankle injury and recently had to withdraw from the squad following a match against Hungary in Dublin. Unfortunately, a fresh ankle problem has now sidelined the 30-year-old forward once again, as reported by the East Anglian Daily Times. This means Szmodics will not be participating in Ireland’s international fixtures, further adding to his injury woes.
In his most recent performance for Ipswich Town against Norwich City, Szmodics played 86 minutes before facing this setback. The extent of his latest injury remains uncertain, leaving doubts about his availability for Ipswich’s upcoming match against Middlesbrough on October 17.
While Ireland’s World Cup qualifying hopes seem slim, missing Szmodics is a significant blow, despite his form not reaching its peak in international matches. The consistent absence of a player who has not missed a game for Ipswich can be frustrating for both the national team and the club.
Given Szmodics’s fitness concerns, the break may offer him much-needed rest to recuperate before returning to competitive action. Ipswich Town and manager Kieran McKenna will be cautiously optimistic about his recovery, as the forward’s Championship experience and potential impact are valuable assets to the team.
Though Szmodics has yet to score or provide assists in the early season games, an improved physical condition following the rest could see him return to top form, benefiting both Ipswich and Ireland in the long run. The hope is that Szmodics will make a full recovery and resume playing at his best to contribute positively to his club and international team.
