Ipswich Town is gearing up for their final match of 2023 against QPR at Portman Road, and Alex Jones provides a preview of the upcoming action.
The year-end fixture marks the culmination of a remarkable year for Ipswich Town. Achieving promotion from League One in spectacular fashion and making the second-best start in the Championship’s history, the team has demonstrated its prowess. Since a 1-1 draw at Lincoln City on January 3rd, Ipswich has only suffered six losses in all competitions, with four occurring in the league. Noteworthy home victories, such as a 6-0 win against Charlton Athletic and several 4-0 triumphs in League One, showcase Ipswich’s dominance. The team’s goal is to maintain these high levels in 2024, building on an already exceptional year.
The recent draw against Norwich and a challenging match at Elland Road resulted in a 4-0 defeat, the heaviest under coach Kieran McKenna. Although Ipswich performed well against Leicester City, securing a late equalizer, they managed to garner only two points from their last three games. Despite the difficulties, the expectation is high for Ipswich to secure a win against QPR, currently languishing in the relegation zone and experiencing poor form.
QPR has undergone a managerial change, with Marti Cifuentes taking over from Gareth Ainsworth. Cifuentes, known for his success at Stockholm-based club Hammarby, has faced challenges with two draws and a defeat in his initial matches. Despite consecutive wins against Stoke City, Preston North End, and Hull City, QPR enters the Portman Road clash on the back of three defeats.
The previous encounter between Ipswich and QPR at Loftus Road saw Ipswich struggle, but since then, QPR has transitioned to a 4-3-3 formation under Cifuentes, with Ilias Chair standing out on the left flank. Ipswich is poised to make changes due to the quick turnaround from the Boxing Day clash, with George Hirst sidelined due to injury and captain Sam Morsy serving a one-match suspension. Ipswich will look to players like Massimo Luongo and Jack Taylor to step up in the absence of key figures. Additionally, former Ipswich player Andre Dozzell returns to Portman Road as part of the QPR squad.
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