Gary O’Neil provides Jaden Philogene injury update amid Ipswich transfer speculation

Ipswich Town manager Gary O'Neil has confirmed Jaden Philogene is recovering from a minor hamstring injury while dismissing growing speculation surrounding the winger's future at Portman Road.

The 24-year-old missed Ipswich's pre-season fixtures against FC Cartagena and Osasuna after suffering the injury, but O'Neil expects the attacker to return in time to challenge for the club's Premier League opener against Sunderland.

Speaking after Ipswich's narrow defeat to Osasuna, the Town boss also played down reports suggesting Philogene has asked to leave the club this summer.

O'Neil revealed Philogene underwent a scan after missing the club's training camp in Spain and confirmed the injury is not expected to keep him out for long.

"Hamstring injury," O'Neil said. "He missed the game in Spain as well. He's had a scan. He's got a small hamstring injury. He's expected to be back soon."

The Ipswich manager made it clear his immediate priority is preparing the winger for the start of the Premier League season rather than discussing transfer rumours.

"He's part of my plans and I'll treat him that way until he's no longer our player. The plan is to get him ready for Sunderland and see what we can get out of him."

Philogene has been linked with a move away from Portman Road after reports claimed he had informed the club of his desire to leave.

O'Neil, however, insisted those claims do not reflect his own conversations with the player.

"He's not said that to me. I've spoken to him maybe 25 times since I've been here, no mention of him wanting to leave. It's probably noise."

The comments suggest Ipswich are continuing preparations for the new campaign with the expectation that Philogene will remain part of O'Neil's squad unless circumstances change before the transfer window closes.

Despite the speculation, O'Neil was full of praise for the winger and outlined his commitment to helping him fulfil his potential.

The Ipswich head coach described Philogene as a "top talent" and said his focus is on ensuring the attacker is physically and mentally prepared for Premier League football.

O'Neil also acknowledged that transfer situations can develop quickly during the summer but stressed that, based on the current situation, he expects Philogene to play an important role this season.

With Ipswich preparing for their return to the top flight, keeping key attacking players fit and available remains a major priority. A quick recovery for Philogene would provide O'Neil with another valuable option as the club looks to make a positive start against Sunderland.

Ipswich's medical staff will continue monitoring Philogene's recovery before gradually reintegrating him into first-team training. O'Neil remains hopeful the winger will be available for the opening Premier League fixture against Sunderland, although speculation over his future could continue until the summer transfer window closes.