BBC Sport pundit Chris Sutton has expressed concerns about Ipswich Town’s prospects in the Premier League, suggesting the club faces a difficult campaign ahead. Sutton commented that newly promoted teams consistently struggle to maintain their top-flight status, noting that manager Kieran McKenna’s recent departure may reflect the significant challenge that lies ahead for the Suffolk club.
Despite his pessimism about Ipswich’s overall prospects, Sutton praised the club’s acquisition of forward Daizen Maeda from Celtic as an astute piece of business. The pundit highlighted Maeda’s exceptional pace and ability to press opponents as key attributes that could prove valuable in a counter-attacking system, though he acknowledged potential concerns about the player’s finishing and final delivery from the left flank.
Sutton suggested that Maeda possesses the work ethic and defensive intensity needed to contribute meaningfully to the team’s efforts this season. He also indicated surprise that Celtic allowed the player to depart, viewing him as someone the Scottish club should have retained. While Sutton expressed genuine hope for Ipswich’s survival, he remains skeptical about their chances in what he anticipates will be a testing Premier League season for the promoted side.
