Civelli set to return in new year

22-year-old Civelli was injured in a game against Burnley in March

Ipswich winger Luciano Civelli has been given permission to increase his fitness regime as he targets the new year to return from a knee injury.

The 22-year-old suffered extensive knee ligament damage during a Championship game against Burnley on 17 March.

Civelli's surgeon Andy Williams has allowed him to begin strengthening and balance work as his recovery continues.

Town physio Matt Byard told the club website: "There is a long journey ahead yet, but his recovery is encouraging."

Williams, who operated on Civelli, is delighted with the Argentine's progress from a complex injury, which included a ruptured cruciate ligament.

Byard added: "The muscles are strengthening around the knee joint. He has now been given the green light to step up his rehabilitation, in what will be a crucial time for him over the next four to six weeks."