'One of the many great stories'

Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna says Ali Al-Hamadi is enjoying the step up from the Championship to the Premier League with the Tractor Boys.

The Iraqi international has a chance to play against his former club when Ipswich travel to AFC Wimbledon in the EFL Cup on Wednesday.

"It's one of the many great stories that we have in our squad," McKenna said on Al-Hamadi in his news conference.

"I was on the pitch with him before the game against Manchester City. He told me that this time last year he had Grimsby away, and now he's coming on against Man City and Liverpool.

"He's enjoying the step up. There's a fine balance between giving yourself a pat on the back and the sense of wonder of where he is. It's about making sure that he's going out on the pitch with the intent and the mindset to make an impact.

"He's working his way back from a big injury and we know the journey he's been on. He's working day to day to get better and improve his game."

Ipswich have already signed Liam Delap and there are ongoing links to Armando Broja, so regular minutes in the frontline may be hard to come by for Al-Hamadi. The manager was asked if a late loan deal could be on the cards.

"The focus is on Ali being with us at the moment," McKenna said. "Making an impact in every session and every game. We're not deep in that position at the moment by any means.

"There's always the possibility that things can change in the next 72 hours but at the moment ours and his focus is getting him ready for the next game."