IPSWICH Town defender Tommy Smith has been ruled out for the season.

Elvin King

By ELVIN KING

elvin.king@archant.co.uk

IPSWICH Town defender Tommy Smith has been ruled out for the season.

The 18-year-old defender, who made his first team debut in the opening game of the season at home to Preston, broke his ankle soon afterwards.

He is utilising some of the most modern equipment to regain his fitness, but it will be next season before he is expected to play a competitive game again.

Smith is using a space age anti-gravity treadmill developed by NASA with Town physio Matt Byard saying: “Tommy has been to a clinic in London to use the treadmill, which is a new product that has come in from the United States.

“It was originally used by NASA and is currently being used at AC Milan and Manchester City. Kieron Dyer has also used it as he recovers from injury.

“It's primarily for endurance athletes, to reduce the risk of impact related injuries and to facilitate training and conditioning.

“A pressure system seals around Tommy's waist, reducing body weight and subsequently impact.

“There is less resistance and that allows him to increase his workload, but with minimal stress on his joints.”

A big future is predicted for Smith, who is under contract at Portman Road until the summer of 2012.

Cambridge United manager Gary Brabin has confirmed that he would like to extend the loan of Town midfielder Jai Reason beyond its initial month that ended today (SAT).

“Jai has given us something a little bit different,” said Brabin, whose side are in contention for promotion from the Blue Square Premier.

“He plays with high energy and a decent attitude. I know he's enjoyed his time here and is desperate to stay, so hopefully we can get things tied up.”