Ipswich vs Aston Villa - Tommy Smith will be checked ahead of Ipswich's clash with Aston Villa

Ipswich defender Tommy Smith will be assessed ahead of the visit of Aston Villa after missing the midweek 1-0 win at Derby because of a back problem.

Striker Freddie Sears (groin) was also not fit to feature against the Rams at the iPro Stadium, where veteran forward Luke Varney came off the bench to score the winning goal early in the second half.

Republic of Ireland striker David McGoldrick has stepped up his recovery from an ankle ligaments problem, but is still around six weeks away from a return to action.

Midfielders Luke Hyam (knee) and Jonny Williams, on loan from Crystal Palace, are also sidelined.

Aston Villa are waiting on the fitness of Jack Grealish after he missed Wednesday's 1-1 draw with Brentford with a hamstring injury.

Ross McCormack also came off in the second half at Villa Park with a knee injury and Ritchie de Laet, who was substituted after a collision, is a doubt.

Aaron Tshibola could also miss the trip to Portman Road after he sat out the game against the Bees with a groin injury but Albert Adomah could make his debut after a deadline day move from Middlesbrough.

Villa have already dropped nine points from winning positions after blowing another lead against Brentford.