Ipswich take surprise George Edmundson action after Middlesbrough transfer talks
IPSWICH Town have recalled George Edmundson from his Middlesbrough loan.
It's a blow for Boro, with Edmundson having started 20 of the 27 Championship games so far this season.
Boro have been in talks with Ipswich over making Edmundson's stay permanent, but with an agreement yet to be reached the Tractor Boys have triggered their clause to recall the defender.
Ipswich might have activated the clause to try and force Boro's hand in transfer talks, but having already played for both sides this season, Edmundson will be unable to play for any other club in the second half of the campaign.
Edmundson's Ipswich contract is due to expire at the end of the season and the centre-half was keen on making a permanent switch to Boro.
In a statement confirming the recall, Boro said: "George Edmundson has been recalled by Ipswich Town.
"The defender’s loan spell was brought to an end by the Premier League club ahead of Boro’s clash with West Bromwich Albion.
"The 27-year-old made 20 appearances for Boro after joining the club on loan at the end of August. George is out of contract at Ipswich at the end of the season.
"Everyone at MFC would like to thank George for all his hard work during his time with us and wishes him all the very best for the future."
With Edmundson unavailable, Luke Ayling returns to the side for tonight's game against West Brom, with Rav van den Berg partnering Dael Fry at centre-half.
In the only other change, Aidan Morris replaces Dan Barlaser in midfield.
BORO: Glover, Ayling, Fry, van den Berg, Borges, Morris, Hackney, Doak, Azaz, Burgzorg, Latte Lath
SUBS: Dieng, Barlaser, Clarke, Gilbert, Hamilton, Forss, Engel, Palmer, McCabe
WEST BROM: Palmer; Furlong, Holgate, Heggem, Styles; Fellows, Molumby, Mowatt, Johnston; Diangana, Grant.
SUBS: Wildsmith, Frabotta, Taylor, Racic, Diakite, Bostock, Swift, Wallace, Cole.
