Kieran McKenna, the manager of Ipswich Town, has praised the way the club’s January acquisitions have assimilated into the Portman Road ethos.
Midway through the previous season, the Blues signed George Hirst, Massimo Luongo, Harry Clarke, and Nathan Broadhead. They arrived at a time when Town’s performance started to wane, but the foursome was crucial in helping them turn things around and win promotion from League One.
With Kieffer Moore, Lewis Travis, Ali Al-Hamadi, and Jeremy Sarmiento all making significant early contributions, there are expectations that the same may occur this season. According to McKenna, their contributions on the field are equally significant to those made off it.
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The manager said, “First and foremost, it’s a testament to the group here because that culture is so strong that players who come into the building pick it up straight away and see that’s the way that they have to follow.”
However, it’s also a credit to the characters we’ve added; their levels of dedication have been outstanding.
Even with his professional background, Kieffer, who joined the group on loan, was instantly accepted by his peers and held a high regard for him.
It’s incredibly positive for the group when he demonstrates the dedication he has shown from the beginning.
“Every boy who has joined has behaved in that way, which speaks highly of both them and the culture these players have created.”
Of course, the atmosphere in the dressing room is hidden from the fans. The players are assessed based solely on their performance on the field, and their performance is evaluated at the conclusion of ninety minutes.
But regardless matter whether they win, lose, or draw, McKenna thinks that everyone can notice the pleasant atmosphere on a matchday because of their dedication and work rate.
It’s a reflection of a team that has proven difficult to defeat, and I don’t believe there have been many moments like this one on a Saturday.
“The dedication that is demonstrated every time they put on the uniform is mirrored in the dedication here every day, but you can’t play well every week and you won’t win every game.
We must not undervalue that; it is crucial. Although we still have a ways to go, it has influenced a lot of our work over the past two years.
