'There's a possibility of Chieo going on loan' - Ipswich manager provides Ogbene update

ON LOAN:Chiedozie Ogbene could leave Ipswich Town on loan before Monday evening’s transfer deadline, according to his manager Kieran McKenna. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Chiedozie Ogbene could leave Ipswich Town on loan before Monday evening’s transfer deadline, according to his manager Kieran McKenna.

Ireland boss Heimir Hallgrímsson has talked up the prospect of unleashing the Corkman on Hungary in next Saturday’s opening World Cup qualifier but his absence from Ipswich’s matchday squad on Saturday suggested his comeback from an Achilles rupture is being carefully managed.

Northern Ireland native McKenna has designs on propelling the Tractor Boys straight back to the Premier League despite a slow start to the campaign but in the short-term new recruits of Sindre Walle Egeli and fellow Ireland international Kasey McAteer are ahead of Ogbene for the wide slots.

The 28-year-old had started Ipswich’s opening day draw at Birmingham City three weeks ago before featuring in Carabao Cup exit at Bromley four days later and appearing as a sub against Southampton.

He’s been spared since and might have a new club before Monday when he assembles with the Ireland squad for the double-header that concludes away to Armenia on Tuesday, September 9.

"There's a possibility that Chieo, and it's only a possibility, might go on loan,” said McKenna following Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Derby County.

"He's coming back from a really, really big injury and done terrific to get himself out there for us this year, but probably had to come into competitive games sooner than what would have been ideal.

“We feel and Chieo feels that a period now where he can build up his minutes on loan and really just focus on getting his body to the best condition and play really regularly for someone could be beneficial to get himself back up to full speed."

Hallgrímsson has missed Ogbene’s contribution since suffering his long-term injury last October and has spoken about the attributes he’ll bring to the World Cup qualifying tilt.

“Chieo has this directness, he's lightning fast, can do brilliant things on his own but he’s also really a good squad player who works hard and is honest.

“It's early days for him after coming back from a terrible injury and I can see he's growing game by game.

“Ipswich are not pushing him, giving him some minutes and then they're resting him, which is necessary. Once he gets flying he can be lethal for opponents.”