Ipswich's play-off hopes have been boosted with the news that midfielder Velice Sumulikoski does not require surgery on his shin injury.The Macedonian was ruled out for up to three months last week after he partially tore the artery in his shin, but after seeing a surgeon he has been given the green light to carry on playing.

Physio Matt Byard told the club's official website: "We took Shumi to see a London specialist who carried out a thorough examination and told us that the healing process is already well under way.

"He's happy for Shumi to carry on playing and obviously that's great news.

"It's likely he will continue to experience symptoms for weeks, even months, but he's clear to play and came through a training session on Thursday without any problems."

More Football News from TEAMtalk