Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna addressed the challenges of acclimatizing to the Championship following the club’s recent relegation from the Premier League. As the Tractor Boys prepare for their upcoming match against Leicester City, McKenna reflects on the difficulties of transitioning back to the lower division after a disappointing season in the top flight.
Ipswich currently sits in fourth place, trailing the automatic promotion slots by five points. In contrast, Leicester City, who sit 13th, have faced a turbulent start to their campaign, just three points shy of the play-off positions. McKenna emphasized that the adjustment differs from club to club but acknowledged the broader difficulties teams face, particularly when they fail to begin the season on a positive note.
“It’s probably different for different clubs but it is difficult, especially if you don’t get off to a good start,” McKenna shared in an interview with BBC Radio Suffolk. He added that overcoming the momentum from a losing season poses significant challenges.
He pointed to various examples over the years, including Luton Town’s relegation to League One after a brief stint in the Premier League, showcasing the unpredictability of transitioning between divisions. “Turning around momentum in all aspects from the season before is difficult, and that’s what we’re still fighting to do here,” he explained.
Looking ahead to the encounter with Leicester, McKenna noted that the Foxes likely share discontent with their current position, having expected better results. However, he is aware of the potential threats they possess, reinforcing the notion that it will require a robust performance from Ipswich to secure victory.
“It’s of course a challenge coming down from the Premier League,” said McKenna. “Still, when I watch them, they’re very often the better footballing side in a game. They play very well through the pitch and display good football.”
He also praised Leicester’s head coach, Marti Cifuentes, highlighting his previous success at QPR. McKenna acknowledged that Leicester remains a well-organized and talented team, which intensifies the challenge for Ipswich as they seek to maintain their promotion push.
