Ipswich Town have returned to the Premier League this season after a 22-year absence.
With a Premier League opener against Arne Slot’s Liverpool and a trip to eight-time champions Manchester City, Ipswich Town has had a challenging start.
After failing to pick up a point in their first two games, Kieran Mckenna’s side earned their first points last weekend in a 1-1 draw with Fulham.
Despite being written off by many at the start of the season, the Tractor Boys have shown some promise in their opening three games, grabbing the lead at the Etihad and coming close to securing three points against an experienced Marco Silva team.
Currently one spot above the drop zone, the Tractor Boys would likely bite anyone’s hand off for a 17th-place result in May.
Alan Shearer and Gary Lineker’s positive Ipswich prediction
Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer have recently focused on Ipswich’s chances of survival, giving fans hope.
On the most recent episode of ‘The Rest Is Football’ podcast, Lineker discussed Ipswich’s chances of staying up in comparison to other promoted teams.
“I believe Kieran McKenna has done an excellent job. Achieving double promotions is extremely difficult, as is attempting to adapt to the Premier League.
“They have supported him, and they have invested a little bucks, as promoted clubs must do to have any chance of staying up. I believe Ipswich are the most likely of the three promoted clubs I’ve seen so far, including my own club Leicester.
Shearer, Lineker’s podcast co-host, then expressed his opinion, confirming that he agreed with his fellow former England star.
“Their season began last Saturday, didn’t it? Liverpool and City’s first two games were extremely difficult. I agree with you; based on what I’ve seen in the first three games, regardless of who they’ve played against, I believe they have the best chance of survival.
What next for Ipswich Town?
Kieran Mckenna’s side has a busy month ahead of them following the international break. The Tractor Boys travel to third-placed Brighton on September 14th, followed by a massive meeting against Southampton on September 21st, which might have a significant impact on their survival chances come May.
The term’relegation six-pointer’ isn’t typically used only a month into the season, but with the Saints still to pick up a point, both teams will be anxious to get one over their relegation opponents.
Ipswich will conclude the month by hosting Champions League newcomers Aston Villa, which will undoubtedly be a challenging match at Portman Road.
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