Luke Garbutt joined Ipswich Town on a season-long loan and had a bright start to life at Portman Road with two goals in his first two appearances – 1-0 win over Burton Albion (August 3), 1-1 draw with Sunderland (August 10).
The 26-year-old has made only one appearance since, however, which may have perplexed Everton supporters that haven’t been monitoring his progress. Here’s why Garbutt has hardly featured of late…
The left-back suffered media ligament damage against Sunderland that forced him off after just 39 minutes. He didn’t need to undergo surgery but was ruled out for a month.
Garbutt was back in action more than five weeks later to start against MK Dons – he played a full 90 minutes as Ipswich won 1-0. The Englishman didn’t feature four days later against Gillingham, however, as he was being rested.
Alan Judge and Gwion Edwards have deputised in Garbutt’s stead, so the returning defender has a challenge to earn back his place in the starting eleven.
Paul Lambert clearly has faith in the 26-year-old, however, as he started him against MK Dons. Ipswich next face Tranmere Rovers on September 28. Garbutt should be adequately rested for the weekend encounter.