Ipswich Town began the 2025/26 Championship season as one of the favorites to secure the title, boosted by a squad featuring established second-tier talents like Jack Clarke, Jaden Philogene, and Sammie Szmodics. Further reinforcements, such as Marcelino Nunez, Chuba Akpom, and Jens-Lys Cajuste, were brought in to bolster the squad for a strong campaign.
Despite the high expectations, the start of the season has been less than ideal for Kieran McKenna’s side. The Tractor Boys are yet to secure a victory in their first four matches, with three draws and a defeat against Preston North End. This slow start has raised concerns, especially after the team achieved back-to-back promotions from League One to the top-flight in previous seasons.
One notable area of concern for Ipswich is their lack of depth in the left-sided defensive positions. With only Jacob Greaves and Leif Davis as senior left-footed defenders, an injury to either player could potentially have significant consequences for the team’s competitiveness. While Cameron Humphreys can provide cover at full-back, he may not be as effective in the left-sided role, and experienced right-back Ashley Young could be an alternative option.
The absence of a natural left-sided defender as a backup raises questions about Ipswich’s defensive solidity and the potential vulnerabilities that may arise if key players are sidelined. While Elkan Baggott could fill the void, his lack of Championship experience might make the coaching staff hesitant to rely on him in crucial situations.
As Ipswich looks to turn their season around, McKenna will have a chance to reflect and strategize during the international break. The team’s underwhelming performances in the opening games coupled with the defensive concerns highlight the need for tactical adjustments and improvements to capitalize on their talented squad.
While Ipswich’s attacking prowess is undeniable, finding the right balance and cohesion on the field will be crucial for their success in the Championship. As they aim to close the gap on the league leaders and bounce back from their early setbacks, addressing the defensive vulnerabilities and maximizing the potential of their squad will be key priorities for McKenna and his coaching staff in the coming weeks.
