Kieran McKenna believes that Ipswich Town has had a successful transfer window and is confident that they will be competitive in the Premier League, even if they are unable to secure a forward in the final hours.
McKenna, who has led the Tractor Boys from League One to the Premier League in consecutive seasons, has made several new signings at Portman Road.
Kieran McKenna is currently addressing the media ahead of the upcoming match against Fulham. 🗣️🎙️
Regarding potential deadline day signings, McKenna stated: “It’s more unlikely than likely, but not impossible. We have been looking at strengthening the forward position and the club is working diligently towards that goal. If it doesn’t happen…
— IPSWICH TOWN (@IpswichTown) August 30, 2024
Among the new signings are Chelsea loanee Omari Hutchinson, Hull defender Jacob Greaves, Man City forward Liam Delap, Sunderland winger Jack Clarke, Burnley defender Dara O’Shea, Blackburn attacking midfielder Sammie Szmodics, Burnley goalkeeper Arjanet Muric, Luton winger Chiedozie Ogbene, and Man City midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
Prior to their upcoming home game against Fulham, McKenna expressed: “We have conducted some excellent business. We knew it was crucial for us, particularly as a newly promoted team.
“Coming from our current position and the progress we’ve made as a football club, it was unanimously agreed that strengthening was of utmost importance.
“It has been a challenging window, but I believe we have positioned ourselves well. Not everything goes according to plan, but everyone has put in a tremendous effort to provide us with a squad that can compete this season.”
Broja deal still possible
One setback has been the failed signing of Chelsea striker Armando Broja, who did not pass a medical due to a foot injury.
This leaves Ipswich with Liam Delap, Ali Al-Hamadi, and the injured George Hirst as their only forward options.
McKenna has not ruled out revisiting the Broja deal before the deadline and added: “The club is working tirelessly until the window closes. If the right opportunity arises with the right player to enhance our squad, we will pursue it.
“If not, we will move forward with the squad we have. We have confidence in all our players and those in the forward positions.”
“I am content with our current situation. You don’t always get your first choice, whether you are Manchester City or Ipswich Town. We are currently short in the forward positions, with Liam in his debut Premier League season and Ali, who transitioned from League Two just eight months ago.
“If we are unable to bolster our attack, we have George Hirst returning from injury post-deadline and will rely on three hungry, young strikers in George, Liam, and Ali, who we believe will make an impact at this level.”
Kieran McKenna’s update on Armando Broja:
🗣️ “We will assess the situation and hopefully reach a resolution by this evening.
It seems less likely at the moment, but not impossible. We have been looking to strengthen that position.” pic.twitter.com/tStKP8JGjg
— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) August 30, 2024