Sammie Szmodics hits back at 'ridiculous' hate messages questioning his commitment to Ireland

The Republic of Ireland striker has struggled with injuries throughout 2025.

SORE SAMMIE: Republic of Ireland international Sammie Szmodics says he will be “back in no time” after confirming he has undergone surgery on his latest injury. Pic: ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Republic of Ireland international Sammie Szmodics says he will be “back in no time” after confirming he has undergone surgery on his latest injury.

The striker has struggled with injuries throughout 2025, starting with a recurring ankle issue that he first suffered in action for Ipswich Town at the beginning of the year which has also led to him missing several Ireland fixtures.

The 29-year-old’s latest setback saw him forced to withdrawn in the early stages of the Tractor Boys’ 1-0 victory against West Brom on Saturday, with manager Kieran McKenna confirming afterwards that the attacker had an issue with his knee.

"Sammie I've not seen yet. That was a knock on his knee that he obviously tried to shrug off,” he said.

“That's one of them that can one way or another. I'd imagine we'll investigate that over the next 24 hours.” McKenna, who has been linked with the Celtic job in recent days, is due to hold a press conference on Thursday but Szmodics has already taken to his Instagram account to post an image of him in hospital with the message “Operation all done. Back in no time.”

Szmodics later added another post addressing some of the criticism he has received recently from Irish fans questioning his commitment to the national team having pulled out of squads through injury.

“On the mend after a minor knee op. Thank you for all the supportive messages,” he added.

“Also thank you for the keyboard warriors that know more about my life and my situation than I do.

“The last two weeks have been nothing shy of ridiculous the amount of hate messages me and my family have received over the recent international football concerns.

“Injury comes with playing games and rest is so important otherwise things like this happen. Question my ability and performance but never question my professionalism.

“Looking to be back ASAP. I will be making no more comment on the matter.”

Heimir Hallgrímsson is set to name his squad for Ireland’s final two World Cup group stage qualifiers on Thursday, November 6 ahead of the home fixtures against Portugal on November 13 and away clash with Hungary on November 16.