July 21 2006

The Football League

Ipswich maybe regarded as one of those mid-table sides lurking amongst the Championship, but this season could be one of the most telling in the club’s history, writes Danny Hayes.

After struggling last season and sacking Joe Royle, there is a lot of pressure upon Jim Magilton, the youngest manager in the division, who probably has the youngest squad at his disposable.

Ipswich may be renound for producing good youngsters, but this crop of players are going to have to be if Ipswich are not to be dragged into a relegation dogfight.

Without any additions to the squad over the summer, the team are going to have to rely on the nucleus of the team that disappointed last season.

One saving grace for the team will be the return of front pairing Nicky Forster and Sam Parkin who both sustained serious injuries last campaign but should be ready for the start of the season.

Their Squad

Forster and Parkin were both consistent strikers outside of the Premiership, but could only contribute 10 goals between them due to injuries.

If they can put those setbacks behind them they will provide a massive boost to the inexperienced Ipswich side. Parkin in particular is crucial to the side, with his natural talent and the ability to hold the ball up while waiting for support from midfield.

The midfield is where the team really lacks experience and strength in depth. With Magilton taking over the reigns of manager, it leaves the middle of the side lacking any leadership. The centre pairing of OWEN GARVAN and Ian Westlake are both talented individuals but could easily become overrun by more dominating midfield players.

Darren Currie on the right is the one real creative spark in the side, he established himself in the lower divisions and has done remarkably well with Ipswich. His goals this season could prove crucial but he can go missing in games.

Matt Richards will occupy the left hand side of midfield, and although a defender by trade, he has adapted the midfield role well and provides useful cover for the defence as well as a good supply of crosses.

At least the defence for Ipswich is vastly experienced, Jason De Vos and Richard Naylor are long servants to the games lower leagues and will provide valuable experience even if they do lack real pace.

Fabien Wilnis and Luis Castro Sito will be the full backs, with Wilnis proving himself a valuable member of the team over the years. Sito on the other hand can be a liability and has a habit of receiving the odd red card.

Probable Starting XI

Previous Meetings

18/03/06 – Crystal Palace 2-2 Ipswich

26/12/05 – Ipswich 1-2 Crystal Palace

28/12/03 – Ipswich 1-3 Crystal Palace

21/10/03 – Crystal Palace 3-4 Ipswich

When We Meet This Season

05/08/06 – Away

03/02/07 – Home

Prediction

I see Ipswich really struggling this season; 9-1 for relegation could be a useful bet. Their squad is inexperienced, lacks any real quality and contains very little strength in depth.

A bad start to the season could see confidence drain and the pressure mount on new boss Magilton. It could he a harsh lesson in management for one of Ipswich’' fine servants over the years.