U23s hat-trick hero Tommy Hughes said he was happy just to be on the pitch during yesterday’s 4-2 home victory over QPR, let alone scoring three goals.

Hughes, 21, was making his first start for 22 months following a long spell out with injury, having made a handful of sub appearances since returning to action in November.

The victory over the West Londoners was the U23s’ second since the turn of the year after a 2-0 win away against leaders Cardiff City last week.

“It's been brilliant for the lads since we've come back after Christmas,” Hughes told the club site. “Hopefully we can get into the play-offs like we have for the past few years.

“Without the goals, I would have been happy just to be out on the pitch. I’ve worked so hard over the past month, so I knew was ready to play.

“To keep coming back, breaking down and going through hip surgery to being able to return, I’m just so happy to be back.”

Hughes, who made three first-team cup appearances in 2019/20, added: “There are a few people I need to thank. Obviously my mum and how she’s been dealing with me. When I came home I was sometimes down or sometimes happy and she’s handled me really well.

“Alice [Grindrod], who was the club’s player care officer and is now working with the first team, has been absolutely brilliant for me, helping me every day and getting me through it.

“My friends and family have all been around me. [U23s manager] Kieron [Dyer] had his injury problems in his own career so he’s been a really good mentor for me to speak to. The physios, sports science guys, Bryan [Klug], there’s so many people that have helped me.”

Photo: Matchday Images

MaySixth added 15:10 - Jan 18 Quality little player. Seen him a couple of times. Personally think a National League loan could be a good move for him.
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PortmanTerrorist added 07:00 - Jan 19 Humble lad, handling himself in a way he, his family and we ITFC supporters should be proud. Good luck, stay healthy, and hopefully now kick on to where you/we would like to see you, in and around the 1st team at some point in the near future. BTW anyone notice how often Kieron is mentioned when good things are happening within the Club? Strikes me he is an important cog and a key connection to the values our Club has always been known for.

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LimerickTractorBoy added 16:32 - Jan 19 Great stuff Tommy, we'll done to you for your perseverance and all involved in getting you to where you are. Onwards and upwards please God.
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