Hull City defender Charlie Hughes is closing in on a first-team return after making a strong recovery from a groin injury. The 23-year-old has returned to training and will step up his fitness by playing for the club's Under-21s, providing a significant lift ahead of Saturday's Premier League fixture against Ipswich Town at the MKM Stadium.

Head coach Jakirovic confirmed the positive news this week, stating that Hughes has suffered no adverse reaction since resuming training. "Charlie was a first 11 player, so it was a big impact for us to be without him," Jakirovic said. "In December, we will have games every three days, so we need every player." The manager admitted he had been worried about the defender's lengthy absence, which has kept him out since the first week of pre-season.

Hughes last played a competitive game in the Championship play-off final at Wembley. His return to the fold is a major boost for a Hull side sitting 10th in the Premier League with 10 points from eight matches. The Tigers host 12th-placed Ipswich this weekend, looking to improve on a recent run of form that has seen them win none of their last four league games.

Squad fitness updates

Jakirovic also provided updates on several other players. Nobel Mendy, who missed the last couple of games with a groin issue, is included in the squad. Goalkeeper Jack Butland, out with an elbow problem sustained during a friendly in Frankfurt, is also back in contention. Striker Oli McBurnie, who scored from the penalty spot in the 1-1 draw with Brentford last Saturday, has trained all week despite a broken finger and damaged rib. Captain Lewie Coyle left Sunday's action with hamstring stiffness but trained this week and is expected to play.

With 27 players named in the squad, Jakirovic has options. Young striker Ilias Ansah is recovering from a back problem and is doing individual work, with an expectation he will rejoin group training in about five weeks. Other academy prospects like Christos Mouzakitis and Robinio Vaz may get minutes through Under-21 fixtures at the MKM Stadium to aid their development.

The return of Hughes adds depth to a defence that has conceded eight goals this season. His availability is particularly welcome as Hull aim to avenge a 1-0 defeat at Portman Road back in March. The team's next match is at home to Ipswich Town on Saturday, 31 October.

First reported at hulldailymail.co.uk