Is Ipswich Town missing a crucial piece to unlock Premier League dreams? Former Ipswich Town and England defender Mick Mills certainly thinks so, and he's making a strong case for a goalscorer to be at the top of manager Kieran McKenna's January transfer wish list.
With Ipswich currently enjoying a solid run, climbing into the Championship play-off spots after a string of impressive wins, the pressure is on to keep the momentum going. Mills, who celebrated his 77th birthday, believes that a proven goalscorer could be the difference-maker. He highlighted the impact of Kieffer Moore, who joined on loan two years ago and scored seven goals, significantly boosting their promotion push.
"If - and it's a big if - there was one out there, it's either got to be a really good goalscorer from either the number nine or 10 position," Mills explained to BBC Radio Suffolk. He emphasized the importance of a player with a consistent track record of scoring goals, someone who has proven their ability throughout their career. "We need goals. I think we're well covered all over the pitch (in other positions) and I don't want us to buy anybody unnecessarily."
But here's where it gets interesting: Ipswich already boasts an impressive goal tally, ranking second only to leaders Coventry City with 42 goals. However, the majority of these goals have come from midfielders Jaden Philogene (nine) and Jack Clarke (eight), rather than the designated strikers. First-choice striker George Hirst has six league goals but is currently sidelined due to injury, while Ivan Azon and Chuba Akpom have only managed two goals each.
This raises a key question: Is the current squad truly firing on all cylinders?
Following a busy summer transfer window that saw 11 new players arrive, McKenna initially faced challenges as the team took time to gel, winning only three of their first 10 games. Mills believes that the excuses regarding settling in were "a bit overplayed." Now, with the team finding their rhythm, Mills is optimistic about their chances. He sees an opportunity for Ipswich to capitalize on potential weaknesses in other teams and push for promotion.
"From this moment onwards, games just disappear so quickly. You're past halfway and you can almost start a bit of a countdown," Mills noted, stressing the significance of the January-February period in securing a favorable position. "The players have settled, they're playing for Ipswich Town Football Club and they are trying to get promotion to the Premiership. It's all there for them to see and understand and we're up and running."
The postponement of their recent game at Portsmouth gives Ipswich a break before facing Blackburn Rovers on January 17th. This weekend, they face League One side Blackpool in the FA Cup, presenting McKenna with a selection dilemma. Mills suggests that McKenna must decide whether to rest key players or maintain momentum.
What do you think? Do you agree with Mick Mills that a goalscorer is the missing piece? Or do you believe the current squad has enough firepower to secure promotion? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
