📈 Ipswich v Sheffield United Form & Tactics
We can be pretty sure that Kieran McKenna will set his team up in a 4-2-3-1 formation. I am expecting Jens Cajuste to continue to partner Azor Matusiwa in the double pivot, despite the historic signing of former Norwich man Marcelino Nunez; however, the Chilean does give McKenna more variety to use when required.
McKenna prefers to use wide attackers on their opposite sides to offer a shot threat. Jack Clarke and Jaden Philogene certainly fit the bill, but there is plenty of competition for their spots. George Hirst now also has competition for his place from Ivan Azon, whilst Chuba Akpom is expected to be used in a more withdrawn role.
It’s been a huge surprise that Ipswich are waiting for a first win, given they were pre-season title favourites; they need to start turning their dominant performances into wins. They have won the xG battle in all of their matches this season, yet have drawn three and lost one.
Readers of this column are likely to know already that Sheffield United have lost all of their matches this season, and that Ruben Selles is under extreme pressure already. This match has much riding on it for the head coach, and his team selection is also under scrutiny.
I find it difficult to believe that he will continue to play with a 4-3-3 single pivot, especially with the pivot being Sydie Peck, who is a very capable central midfielder, but is not well experienced or highly skilled in that pivotal role. United have been too easy to cut through centrally, the signing of Tahith Chong could potentially help this balance.
Defensive reinforcements in the shape of Japhet Tanganga and Mark McGuinness should help heal the holes in the centre of defence, but there is still work to be done there.