ITFC IMAGE - 24/08/26
ITFC IMAGE - 24/08/26
Ipswich Town head into a crucial four-game period in the Premier League after back to back deates to Manchester United at Old Trafford and Liverpool at Portman Road fixtures that were always likely to be the free hitters for Gary O’Neils side but performances in that games showed postivate signs. Now comes a spell that looks far more manageable on paper with Crystal Palace, Everton, Fulham and Manchester City all in varying stages of transition.
Crystal Palace (A)
Ipswich’s run begins at Selhurst Park vs Crystal Palace, where they are under new manager Pierre Sage and have endured a difficult start, with a poor transfer window, but they are looking weak and exposed, lacking cohesion. With Sage’s system still bedding in, and Palace also conceding 8 goals, Ipswich’s pace and pressing against their backline could cause real problems, creating a genuine opportunity for points from a side still searching for its identity.
Everton (A)
Town then travel to the Hill Dickson Stadium to face David Moyes’s Everton, who are operating with just 19 senior outfield players after an underwhelming transfer window; also, only one striker in that squad could mean that they might face injuries and not have the depth while still being physical and combative. Ipswich’s mobility and intensity could expose those limitations, and this fixture stands out as another realistic chance to collect points,
Fulham (H)
Back to Portman Road, where Ipswich host Fulham, who are now led by Álvaro Arbeloa. The former Real Madrid defender is new to the Premier League and senior football, with only 28 games managed under his belt. Fulham are still adjusting to his methods and ways, but Arbeloa is very much under pressure after not winning any of the first 3 games of the season. While defensive structure has shown early cracks, the home support at Portman Road has already proven influential. This is arguably the most favourable fixture out of the four and one O’Neil will absolutely target.
Manchester City (A)
The toughest test out of the four comes last, with a trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City under Enzo Maresca. While City remains one of the elites but a side that is still adapting to a new identity and several new, fresh faces. But Ipswich needs to be disciplined, brave, and efficient in transition. Even if points are unlikely, competing well here would be valuable for confidence and development.
A Real Chance To Build Momentum
With Palace exposed, Everton thin, Fulham inexperienced and struggling and City still settling under Maresca even though they had a perfect start, Ipswich have a realistic chance to make this run count. Nine points from four fixtures, or even seven points out of the 12 available, is still an excellent return, while strengthening their position and proving they can compete consistently at Premier League level