adminMcKenna Addresses Hutchinson Absence Amid Transfer Speculation
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has confirmed that Omari Hutchinson has recovered from a recent throat infection but was left out of the squad for the Carabao Cup match against Bromley due to ongoing transfer speculation.
The 21-year-old forward also missed the final pre-season fixture against Auxerre for similar reasons. While illness kept him out of the Birmingham City match, that was not the case for Tuesday night’s cup exit on penalties.
McKenna explained that Hutchinson opted out of the game, citing the uncertainty around his future and his desire to return to Premier League football.
“He trained on Monday and was physically fine,” McKenna said. “But he felt he couldn’t contribute today given the current situation. That was his call.”
“He’s expressed a strong desire to continue his career in the Premier League if the opportunity arises. We understand that—it’s a challenging scenario for a young player. He’s only 21, and these situations are never easy to navigate.”
McKenna acknowledged that modern football often sees young players receive varied advice during uncertain times but emphasized the club’s supportive approach.
“We try to guide our players properly,” he continued. “As long as Omari is with us, we want him to be in a position where he can help the team.”
When asked whether a transfer could be imminent, McKenna noted that the club’s stance remains unchanged.
“Omari had a buy-out clause active for a few months, but no appropriate offers came in during that time,” he explained. “Now that clause is no longer active, any move will depend on the club’s decision. So far, nothing has come in to alter that position, but we’ll see what happens over the next few weeks.”
Pressed on whether Ipswich could simply hold him to his contract, McKenna acknowledged the complexity of the situation.
“It’s rarely that simple,” he said. “Yes, the club has the authority to decide, but players have their views too. Especially with a young player, these things are never black and white.”
McKenna concluded, “I’ve shared my perspective with Omari, and he’s shared his. We’ll just have to see how things unfold.”
Meanwhile, Nathan Broadhead—linked with a potential £7.5 million move to Wrexham—was also unavailable after reporting ill on the morning of the match. Azor Matusiwa, who debuted in the Championship last Friday, missed the game due to groin tightness.
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