Gary O'Neil's Ipswich Town has made a strong impression in preseason, and their upcoming match against Sunderland will be a crucial test of their Premier League credentials.
Ipswich Town has undergone significant changes this summer, with the departure of Kieran McKenna and the appointment of former Wolves and Bournemouth coach Gary O'Neil. The general consensus among fans is that O'Neil is a sensible successor, with his Premier League experience and pragmatism making him a suitable fit for the club.
O'Neil has inherited a squad that has been overhauled, with several new signings joining the club. One player who excites fans is Daizen Maeda, who has been brought in from Celtic. According to Celtic fans, Maeda is a non-stop energy player with a great character, and capable of something special.
Ipswich Town's new signings have been impressive, with Abdul Fatawu and Emersonn being two players who have caught the eye. Fatawu, who has joined from Leicester, has explosive pace and can cut in or continue down the line, making him a nightmare for opposition left backs to mark. Emersonn, meanwhile, has been a threat behind the front man, with his impressive goal return and ice cool penalty record making him a valuable asset.
One player who has been linked with Sunderland is Ipswich goalkeeper Alex Palmer. Palmer was a great shot-stopper and a good organiser of the back-line, but he may be leaving the club after the window.
Sunderland fans will be wary of Ipswich Town's midfield, which has been threatening under O'Neil. The positions behind the front man have been where Ipswich Town have looked particularly threatening, and fans will be hoping that their new signings can continue to impress.
The match between Ipswich Town and Sunderland will be a crucial test of both teams' Premier League credentials. Ipswich Town will be looking to build on their strong preseason form, while Sunderland will be hoping to bounce back from a difficult summer.
The match will take place at Portman Road, where Ipswich Town will be looking to make a strong statement. With their new signings and O'Neil's pragmatism, Ipswich Town will be a force to be reckoned with.
Source: Yahoo Sports