Ipswich Town forward Sam Szmodics has addressed supporters after undergoing minor knee surgery, criticising online ‘keyboard warriors’ who sent abuse over his recent absence from international duty.
The 30-year-old Republic of Ireland international limped out of Ipswich’s 1-0 win against West Bromwich Albion last weekend and has since undergone a minor procedure to aid his recovery.
While the operation was described as precautionary, Szmodics revealed he and his family had received a flood of negative messages from fans frustrated by his recent injury setbacks.
Thankyou. I will make no further comment for now 💙🤍 pic.twitter.com/DfPzlbdMA3
— Sam Szmodics (@SamSzmodics) October 29, 2025
Minor Surgery and Frustrated Fans
Szmodics, who joined Ipswich Town from Blackburn Rovers in August 2024, shared an update on Instagram confirming he was “on the mend” after a successful knee operation.
He thanked those who had sent positive messages but took aim at sections of social media who questioned his commitment and professionalism following two missed international camps.
“On the mend after a minor knee op. Thank you for all the supportive messages,” he wrote. “Also thank you for all the keyboard warriors who know more about my life and my situation than I do!
“The last two weeks have been nothing shy of ridiculous with the amount of hate messages me and my family have received over the recent international football concerns.
“Question my ability and performance but never my professionalism.”
Derby day win!! UPPA towen 💙💙 pic.twitter.com/L5XZQtMucM
— Sam Szmodics (@SamSzmodics) October 5, 2025
Szmodics, who enjoyed a breakout Championship season in 2023/24 with 27 goals for Blackburn, has been a key figure in Ipswich’s top-flight campaign.
His energy, pressing and eye for goal have made him a fan favourite at Portman Road, though he’s been forced to manage persistent ankle and knee issues since his arrival.
Focusing on Recovery and Return
The forward, who scored his first Premier League goal against Manchester City, confirmed he hopes to return to training “as soon as possible” but would not be drawn into further discussion about his fitness or Ireland duty. His message ended firmly: “I will be making no more comment on the matter.”
Derby day win!! UPPA towen 💙💙 pic.twitter.com/L5XZQtMucM
— Sam Szmodics (@SamSzmodics) October 5, 2025
For manager Kieran McKenna, the timing is another test of squad depth as Ipswich continue their push to consolidate in the Premier League. Szmodics’ determination to silence critics and regain full fitness will be welcomed by supporters who remember his prolific form in the EFL, a level where he was the Championship’s leading scorer only a short while ago..
The club have not given a specific timeline for his recovery, though early indications suggest Szmodics could be back in contention before the busy December schedule.
