Ipswich Town are one of the favourites for the Championship title this season.
It’s setting up to be a very exciting second tier campaign, and there are plenty of stories to be written over the course of the next nine months as we close in on the opening weekend.
Brentford are still desperate to sign Omari Hutchinson, and after Liam Delap’s £30m move to Chelsea earlier this summer, there are some questions that still need to be answered at Portman Road.
Nevertheless, Ipswich have made some very smart signings already in the transfer window, and after losing their captain Sam Morsy to Kuwait SC, they’ve already signed another leader in Ashley Young.
Ashley Young can provide Ipswich Town with plenty of experience
Watford had been interested in Young, with the ex-Manchester United ace having started his career at Vicarage Road. However, the wages that had to be paid made a move difficult, allowing the Tractor Boys to come in and complete a deal for him.
At 40, some will wonder how much the versatile wing-back can contribute at his age, but the experience he has will prove crucial..
Morsy was a leader in the heart of the midfield for Ipswich, and with him departing there are some huge boots to fill. Yet, Young has been around the block throughout his career, playing the majority of it at a very high level.
He knows exactly what is needed to win league titles and he will be the key for the Tractor Boys’ promotion push in 2025/26.
Kieran McKenna must not overuse Ashley Young
Experience is always needed in a squad, and a lot of the hard work that Young will put in will come away from Portman Road and at the training ground.
His son, Tyler Young, is on trial with the U21s, and it is clear to see the impact that he has had on the 19-year-old’s career so far. McKenna will be hoping that his new signing will help with those coming through the ranks and into the senior squad.
The transition between playing and coaching may also be an area that interests the Serie A and Premier League winner, and this may mean that his playing time is limited.
However, at his age that is needed and McKenna must do everything he can to avoid causing burnout for Young.
