Premier League star almost loses his thumb in 'freak' accident at home

Ipswich Town defender Axel Tuanzebe almost lost his thumb in a freak accident at home that required surgery.

Tuanzebe missed his side's crushing 4-1 defeat to West Ham United last weekend.

Kieran McKenna revealed over the weekend that the player required an operation on a hand injury that meant he missed Ipswich's Premier League clash.

According to The Daily Mail, Tuanzebe came close to losing his thumb in a kitchen mishap.

The ex-Manchester United defender was washing the dishes last week when a glass smashed.

Per the report, one of the shards deeply lacerated his hand, prompting urgent medical attention.

There were concerns that Tuanzebe could lose his thumb following the gruesome incident.

Medics were able to save his digit after surgery, but the 26-year-old is set to be out of action for a 'little while'.

Axel Tuanzebe in action for Ipswich Town. Image: Getty

On Saturday, McKenna revealed: "He's done a hand injury, a very unfortunate accident,’ McKenna explained on Saturday.

"He's had surgery and will be out for a while. It's not going to be a couple of weeks, probably longer. There are still discussions with the specialists.

"He's naturally a miss with the way he's started the season. He's going to be out for a little while."

Tuanzebe joined Ipswich from Man United following a slew of loan spells away from Old Trafford, including stints at Aston Villa, Napoli and Stoke City.

He helped The Tractor Boys secure promotion from the Championship to the Premier League last season.

And he's become a key member of McKenna's team, having started all six of their games this season prior to missing the fixture against West Ham following his freak accident.

Ben Johnson replaced Tuanzebe for the West Ham match as he could keep his place in the starting XI when Ipswich resume their league campaign following the international break.