No Delap? No Problem: McKenna Should Start Szmodics Up Front

Ipswich Town have impressed in the Premier League this season, despite their current position in the relegation zone. Manager Kieran McKenna’s side have secured wins against top teams and drawn with others, giving fans reason for optimism.

However, they face a tough test today hosting Newcastle United without star striker Liam Delap, who is suspended after receiving his fifth yellow card. But McKenna may have a solution in midfielder Sammie Szmodics.

Delap’s Impact This Season

Since joining for £20 million in the summer, Delap has been crucial for Ipswich. After a slow start, he’s scored 6 goals and provided 1 assist in 16 league appearances. His ability to lead the line and bring teammates into play has been vital.

Szmodics: A Potential Striker Option

While primarily playing in midfield, Szmodics has experience as a striker from his time at Blackburn Rovers. In 14 appearances up front for Blackburn, he scored 10 goals – an impressive average of a goal every 1.4 games.

This season, Szmodics has 3 goals in 14 Premier League appearances for Ipswich. With George Hirst injured and questions over Ali Al-Hamadi’s readiness, starting Szmodics as striker could be McKenna’s best option against Newcastle.

Ultimately, while Delap’s absence is a blow, McKenna should trust Szmodics’ experience and goalscoring ability by starting him up front today. The “ridiculous” talent, as one journalist called him, could be the key to Ipswich getting a result.