While many fans dread the international break, Ipswich Town supporters may have welcomed it as a much-needed respite.
Kieran McKenna’s side have played some fantastic football at times this season, but a run of five consecutive defeats across all competitions has left them struggling in 18th place in the Premier League with just 17 points.
Despite the daunting challenge ahead, the Tractor Boys still have a slim chance of overturning Wolverhampton Wanderers’ nine-point cushion in 17th place.
Ipswich’s Recent Results
To mount a comeback, McKenna’s men must start winning games—starting with tonight’s away fixture against Bournemouth. To maximize their chances, the manager should unleash Ipswich’s own answer to Milos Kerkez.
Ipswich’s Record Against Bournemouth
Since their first meeting in 1936, Ipswich and Bournemouth have faced off 39 times across all competitions. The Tractor Boys have won 14, drawn 13, and lost 12.
However, recent encounters have been less favorable. Four of the last five meetings ended in draws, and earlier this season, Bournemouth claimed an away win.
That match was particularly painful for Ipswich. A 21st-minute strike from Conor Chaplin put them ahead, a lead they held until Enes Ünal equalized in the 87th minute. To make matters worse, substitute Dango Ouattara netted the winner in stoppage time.
With that in mind, revenge will be on Ipswich’s agenda tonight. And to increase their chances of getting it, McKenna should turn to his version of Kerkez.
Ipswich’s Answer to Milos Kerkez
Bournemouth have several key threats, including Justin Kluivert, Antoine Semenyo, and Evanilson. On top of that, they cannot afford to let Kerkez roam unchecked.
The Hungarian full-back has been one of the Premier League’s most exciting defenders this season, tallying two goals and six assists in 29 matches—form good enough to attract interest from top clubs like Liverpool.
While Kerkez is a serious threat, McKenna has his own dynamic full-back in Leif Davis.
The former Leeds United defender may not be generating the same buzz, but he has quietly established himself as an outstanding attacking left-back. Since joining Ipswich, Davis—once dubbed an “animal” by Scott Parker—has amassed six goals and 38 assists in 118 appearances, averaging a goal contribution every 2.68 games.
Davis’ Ipswich Record
(Stats via Transfermarkt)
Even in a newly promoted side, Davis has contributed one goal and three assists in 28 games this season—an impressive return.
Beyond his direct goal contributions, the £25k-per-week star also boasts strong underlying numbers. According to FBref, he ranks in the top 4% of Premier League full-backs for key passes, the top 7% for shot-creating actions, and the top 10% for crosses per 90 minutes.
Ipswich may be underdogs tonight, but with players like Davis in the lineup, they have every chance of securing a crucial win and reigniting their survival bid.
Exclusive: McKenna must now unleash Ipswich “animal” who’s his own Kerkez
