Ipswich Town boss Gary O’Neil says his opening fortnight at Portman Road has been “perfect”, with the manager settling quickly into life in Suffolk as pre‑season ramps up. Speaking to TownTV, O’Neil reflected on his first days in charge, the work already underway, and his ambitions for the Premier League campaign ahead.
Settling Into Life in Town
O’Neil was appointed towards the end of June following Kieran McKenna’s departure, with pre‑season training beginning last week. The new boss says the transition has been seamless.
O’Neil told TownTV:
“It’s been brilliant, I’ve loved it. I’ve loved the area. I’ve been out for dinner a couple of times with my wife, a couple of times with the coaching staff. Fantastic place. The lads have been great in the last two days as well, training.”
“Perfect two weeks, really, nothing could have gone any better. Really enjoyed it and the weather, I love the sun… It’s been warm for the lads and they’re running, but I’ve enjoyed the sun.”
Excited for the Premier League Challenge
Reflecting on being back in the top flight, O’Neil says he is energised by the opportunity ahead.
“Just really excited to be back in the Premier League and to be at a club with the history that we have and the group that we have.”
“The club’s in a fantastic spot… seeing if we can make sure we maintain Premier League status, firstly, and, secondly, can we even start to aim even higher than that. If we get going well, then who knows what we can do?”
A Busy Start Behind the Scenes
O’Neil admits he arrived with a long to‑do list, something he says is normal for Premier League management.
“There was a lot to do, there is still and there will be all the way through the season. That is the nature of managing in the Premier League.”
“I enjoy all of it, recruitment, getting to know our players, getting to know all the staff… They’ve been incredible to me so far and they know it’s going to be a big team effort this season.”
He also praised the club’s facilities and staff:
“It’s just an incredible club… the new training ground is nearly under way as well. Even though I’ve loved the old one, the old one has been great for the last couple of weeks. People around it have been fantastic. Food’s good.”
Strong Early Work on the Training Pitch
Town have already completed testing, gym work, double sessions and a training match — a 2–0 win over Southend.
“A real good three‑day block… football this morning and then some real tough runs this afternoon.”
“In pre‑season, you’re looking to lay down some foundations. Don’t injure anyone, if you can. Try and get the group through it and it’s been a real good first few days.”
The squad now prepares for a week‑long training camp in La Manga.
Message to Fans Ahead of Sunderland Opener
With more than a month until Ipswich hosts Sunderland on 22nd August, O’Neil had a clear message for supporters.
“To the fans, let’s make sure we enjoy it, because they’ve earned it… To get back to this moment again is an incredible achievement.”
“The players are going to be well prepped… they’ll be itching to get back out there.”
“If we can create that unbelievable atmosphere again, where the players and fans are fully in sync, I think it could be a real tough place for people to come.”
Photo of Hannah Darbyshire
Hannah Darbyshire
Hannah is an Ipswich Town writer for Vital Football and a lifelong supporter of the club. Growing up following Town through the highs, lows, and long wait for a Premier League return, she brings a supporter’s voice and a sharp editorial eye to her coverage. Her work focuses on telling…