Ipswich Town will go into tomorrow’s clash with Norwich City without James Collins. Both he and captain Luke Chambers had fitness tests this morning and only one pulled through. In the end, the clock beat Collins but this might mean a shock recall for Jonas Knusden at centre back, which is arguably his best position, – although manager Paul Lambert has a number of interesting options at the back.
He could pair Aristote Nsiala with Chambers after he performed so well in his first game back last Saturday against Sheffield Wednesday, or he could retain the services of Mathew Pennington, which is suspect is the most likely scenario.
James Bree will be in the side as a wing back but Myles Kenlock is set to miss out – along with Josh Emmanuel, and both might find themselves having to watch this match from afar. This is not a game for the faint-hearted and that is why the team that Lambert picks tomorrow will include Cole Skuse and Flynne Downes in midfield, and there may be a place for Trevoh Chalabah too, as he could provide a bit of creativity playing centrally.
Up front, I think there may be another surprise. Ellis Harrison has been looking sharp in training and might get the nod ahead of Collin Quaner who has baffled to deceive when he has started games so far. Will Keane might partner him un front, with Freddie Sears providing additional support from the flanks.
If Lambert decides to have four in midfield then the creative spark of Teddy Bishop might influence his thought-processes. Yesterday he signed a new contract that will keep him at the club until 2021 and after signing he said, ” it’s time to replay them now.” He has been with the Blues since he was just seven years of age so when it comes to payback time, then here is the perfect opportunity!
The match tomorrow in Norfolk could make or break Town’s season. The two thousand travelling away support will be hoping they can come back to Suffolk with something to savour and if the Blues were to win it, ( against all the odds) then who knows where the momentum might take us?
F.W. – editor of Vital Ipswich
