Ipswich Town vs. Sheffield United: Predicted Starting XI and Match Preview
Ipswich Town and Sheffield United face off at Portman Road on Friday night, both seeking to kickstart their seasons after underwhelming starts. Ipswich, tipped for promotion, are still searching for their first win, while Sheffield United, under new manager Ruben Selles, are yet to secure a single point.
Sheffield United's Struggles: A Deep Dive
Sheffield United's poor form has raised concerns, with the team languishing at the bottom of the league. Jobi McAnuff, speaking on Sky Sports' Essential EFL podcast, described their start as a "disaster," highlighting the pressure on Selles. The team's vulnerability in transition and lack of goals have been significant issues.
"I am not sure the dressing room is convinced by Selles. The body language does not look right." - Andy Hinchcliffe
Despite new signings like Japhet Tanganga, Ben Mee, Tahith Chong, and Danny Ings, the focus is now on Selles' ability to create a cohesive team. The potential switch to a back three and the arrival of Alex Matos could signal a tactical shift.
Ipswich Town's Predicted Starting XI
Here's a predicted starting XI for Ipswich Town's crucial match against Sheffield United:
- Goalkeeper: ALEX PALMER - Remains the undisputed first choice after conceding just three goals from open play.
- Right-back: DARNELL FURLONG - Poised to make his debut, replacing Ashley Young. The £3.5m signing from West Brom is expected to face a challenge from Louie Barry.
- Right-sided centre-back: DARA O'SHEA - Looking to bounce back after a shaky international break.
- Left-sided centre-back: JACOB GREAVES - Continuing to develop his partnership with O'Shea.
- Left-back: LEIF DAVIS - A guaranteed starter when fit, offering significant attacking threat.
- Holding midfielder: AZOR MATUSIWA - Improving with each game, forming a strong partnership with Jens Cajuste. Needs to control Gustavo Hamer.
- Box-to-box midfielder: JENS CAJUSTE - Impressed on his debut against Derby, showcasing flair and drive.
- Right-winger: KASEY MCATEER - Likely to build on his full debut against Derby after playing for Ireland.
- No.10: CHUBA AKPOM - Set to make his first start, filling the void left by injuries to Conor Chaplin and Sammie Szmodics. A former Championship Golden Boot winner, he is expected to be a key player.
- Left-winger: JADEN PHILOGENE - Expected to retain his place despite inconsistent performances.
- Striker: GEORGE HIRST - Eager to score his first goal from open play, hoping for more space against Sheffield United's defense.
Ipswich Town's Underwhelming Start
Ipswich, despite their strong squad, have also been "underwhelming," according to McAnuff. The absence of Liam Delap and Omari Hutchinson has been felt. However, the squad boasts significant depth, with players like Chuba Akpom, Jack Clarke, and Darnell Furlong offering strong options.
The Impact of Morsy's Departure
Both McAnuff and Andy Hinchcliffe agree that Sam Morsy's departure has been a major blow. He provided balance and freedom to the attacking players. The arrival of Marcelino Nunez from Norwich is seen as a crucial signing to address this gap in midfield.
"Losing Delap and Hutchinson hurt, but Morsy's departure is the biggest blow." - Andy Hinchcliffe
Match Significance
The game against Sheffield United is a crucial test for both clubs. A win for Ipswich would signal their serious intentions for the season. Both teams need to improve quickly if they hope to achieve their goals. Kieran McKenna and Ruben Selles face intense pressure to deliver.
