Kieran McKenna and Ipswich Town are set to receive a big boost ahead of hosting Liverpool at Portman Road this Saturday.
Liverpool kick off their 2024/25 Premier League campaign against a newly promoted side yet again, Ipswich Town at Portman Road this Saturday, August 17.
The match promises excitement as it marks the return of Ipswich to the topflight after a 22-year absence and the competitive debut of new manager Arne Slot.
Liverpool will kick off their Premier League campaign against a promoted team for the fifth time in the last six games (three victories, one tie).
Since suffering a 3-0 loss to West Bromwich Albion in the 2012–13 season, the Reds have gone 11 seasons without a loss on the opening matchday (winning eight, drawing three).
Ipswich Town secured their promotion with back-to-back successes, and they’ll be eager to make a statement in their first Premier League match since 2002, which, coincidentally, was against Liverpool.
Under the leadership of Kieran McKenna, the Tractor Boys played an entertaining brand of football last season, scoring an impressive 92 goals in the Championship.
While their attack was strong, Ipswich will need to tighten up defensively to stand a chance against Liverpool’s firepower.
But it seems that they are set to receive a major boost to their squad ahead of hosting the Reds this weekend.
Ipswich Town closing deal for Kalvin Phillips ahead of Liverpool
Kieran McKenna’s side are nearing the signing of Kalvin Phillips, who will join from Manchester City on a season-long loan.
The former Leeds man has seen his career stagnate at the Etihad despite adding lots of silverware to his name.
Since joining the Cityzens for £42 million in 2022, Phillips has made just 31 appearances, mostly from the bench, with only 10 starts across all competitions.
Injuries and competition from City’s star-studded midfield have limited his minutes.
Pep Guardiola has expressed regret over the lack of playing time, acknowledging Phillips’ struggles to fit into the system, which has fueled speculation about his future.
But it seems McKenna and Ipswich Town are set to throw a lifeline to a former England Player of the Year.
The Telegraph‘s Mike McGrath reports:
“Ipswich Town on the brink of agreeing a season-long loan for Manchester City midfielder Kalvin Phillips. Statement signing for newly promoted club.”
Fabrizio Romano then followed up with a confirmation of his own:
“Ipswich Town are closing in on deal to sign Kalvin Phillips from Man City, as Mike McGrath reports.”
“Loan move almost agreed with final details being sorted between all parties involved.”
“Three clubs asked for Kalvin on loan but Ipswich now ahead and ready to get it done.”
Of course, even if he is signed before Saturday, there is no guarantees he would be match fit or even selected by the former Manchester United coach.
Nevertheless, Phillips will undoubtedly improve the Tractor Boys should he feature on Saturday.
?? Ipswich Town are closing in on deal to sign Kalvin Phillips from Man City, as @mcgrathmike reports.
Loan move almost agreed with final details being sorted between all parties involved.
Three clubs asked for Kalvin on loan but Ipswich now ahead and ready to get it done. pic.twitter.com/d0b745wcCJ
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 15, 2024
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