Ipswich Town boss: ‘The door is still open for Alex Henshall and Cameron Stewart’

Ipswich Town winger Alex Henshall skips past Colchester defender Kawe Vincent-Young (Image: James Ager)

The 21-year-old signed a two-year deal at Portman Road last summer, following his release from Premier League Manchester City, but made just five substitute appearances last season.

The winger also featured twice as a substitute during a loan spell at relegated Blackpool, but failed to impress the Blues boss sufficiently to even command a regular spot in Ipswich’s match-day squad.

McCarthy, who gave young midfielder Teddy Bishop his break this season and also has high hopes for under-21 quartet Kundai Benyu, Matthew Clarke, Dylan Connolly and Adam McDonnell, said: “Players like Alex Henshall and Cameron Stewart should have been pushing the likes of Tabby, Ando and Hunty more last season.

“They should have been in my squad more regularly but let me tell you, Alex in particular has shown a great attitude.

“He’s come back from being put in the under-21 squad and training with them and done very well, I’ve been pleased with him.

“I’ve spoken with Alex and he’s of the mindset to come back, hit the ground running and have a good go at it again next season.

“Perhaps he could see that, as a young man, this opportunity was ebbing away and he wants to take it. He should be in my squad and Cameron is the same.

“The opportunity is there for them and it’s down to the players. They get all the help, information and assistance from the coaching staff, it’s up to them to take it.”

Stewart spent the end of last season at League One Barnsley, having made just two substitute appearances in the FA Cup for Town, and started three games for the South Yorkshire side.