‘He’s been great’ – John McGreal on Azor Matusiwa’s return in U21s defeat

Ipswich Town midfielder Azor Matusiwa made his return from injury by playing the first half for the Under-21 side in an EFL Trophy match against Luton Town. Under-21 manager John McGreal praised the 28-year-old Dutchman's professionalism and mentorship toward younger players. Despite Matusiwa's return, Ipswich Town Under-21s suffered a 6-0 defeat at Kenilworth Road, highlighted by a Jordan Clark hat-trick for Jack Wilshere's team.

Matusiwa had been sidelined since early May after sustaining a dead leg in April and undergoing offseason surgery. After missing pre-season and the start of the Premier League campaign, first-team manager Gary O'Neil cleared him to play earlier this month. McGreal noted the 45-minute appearance served as an important step to build match fitness for the coming weeks.