Luke Varney out for six months with ruptured Achilles

Ipswich Town have confirmed that Luke Varney will be out for at least six months after rupturing his Achilles during Saturday's Championship playoff semi-final first leg with Norwich City.

The forward, who is on loan from Blackburn Rovers, was stretchered off in the first half and has since undergone successful surgery.

"It's a massive disappointment for us but more importantly for Luke," Blues boss Mick McCarthy told the club website. "He's made a great impression here and he's a top lad."

The 32-year-old, whose Blackburn contract expires later this month, scored one goal in 11 appearances for Ipswich.

His replacement in the first half, Paul Anderson, scored the Blues' equaliser at Portman Road as the hotly-contested derby finished 1-1. The second leg takes place this Saturday lunchtime at Carrow Road, with the winner advancing to a Wembley final against either Middlesbrough or Brentford..