The build-up to this afternoon’s clash between Ipswich Town and Stoke City has been buzzing with anticipation. Both sides enter the game with different objectives but equally strong determination: Ipswich looking to consolidate their position near the top end of the Championship table, while Stoke seek to climb out of the lower half and inject some momentum into their season. The line-ups for today’s encounter have now been confirmed, and supporters from both camps are dissecting every detail of the managers’ decisions.
Ipswich Town Starting XI
Kieran McKenna, never one to shy away from tactical flexibility, has opted for a strong yet balanced line-up. His side remains rooted in the principles of high energy pressing, swift transitions, and technical fluidity in midfield. This afternoon, the Tractor Boys look set to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, a shape that has served them well across the campaign.Goalkeeper: Václav HladkýThe reliable shot-stopper continues to be the man between the sticks. Hladký’s distribution has become a defining feature of Ipswich’s build-up play, and his composure under pressure offers confidence to the back line.Defence: Leif Davis, Luke Woolfenden, Cameron Burgess, Harry ClarkeLeif Davis, fresh off signing a long-term contract extension, anchors the left flank. His overlapping runs and ability to whip in dangerous crosses will again be crucial. At the heart of defence, Woolfenden and Burgess form a commanding partnership, balancing aerial presence with calm ball-playing qualities. Harry Clarke, versatile and energetic, occupies the right-back slot, tasked with both containing Stoke’s wide threats and contributing to Ipswich’s attacking width.Midfield Pivot: Sam Morsy (C) & Massimo LuongoFew duos in the Championship combine grit and craft as well as Morsy and Luongo. The skipper, Morsy, sets the tone with his leadership, tackling, and intelligent passing, while Luongo’s tireless engine ensures Ipswich maintain midfield stability. Together, they form the shield in front of the defence while launching forward thrusts.Attacking Midfield Trio: Wes Burns, Conor Chaplin, Nathan BroadheadThis trio offers dynamism, creativity, and goals. Burns, with his blistering pace on the right wing, will look to stretch Stoke’s backline. Chaplin, playing in the “number 10” role, is Ipswich’s creative spark — his vision and ability to find pockets of space make him a constant threat. On the left, Broadhead brings flair, dribbling, and a knack for scoring from distance. Their interchanging movement is designed to unpick stubborn defences.Striker: George HirstLeading the line is George Hirst, whose work rate and physical presence bring balance to Ipswich’s attack. While not always the most prolific, his link-up play allows the trio behind him to thrive. Hirst’s ability to pin defenders back gives Ipswich the platform to dominate possession higher up the pitch.
On the bench, McKenna has options such as Marcus Harness, Jack Taylor, and Kayden Jackson, all capable of changing the dynamic of the game should circumstances demand.
Stoke City Starting XI
Stoke City, under Steven Schumacher, face the challenge of turning around an inconsistent campaign. They arrive at Portman Road knowing they must be compact and clinical if they are to trouble Ipswich. Schumacher has set his side up in a 3-5-2 formation, aiming for defensive solidity with the potential to spring counterattacks.Goalkeeper: Jack BonhamBonham retains his place, hoping to marshal his defence effectively against Ipswich’s relentless attackers.Defence: Michael Rose, Ben Wilmot, Luke McNallyA back three tasked with resisting Ipswich’s fluid forward movement. Rose provides experience, Wilmot offers composure, and McNally’s aggression will be key in aerial duels against Hirst.Wingbacks: Enda Stevens & Ki-Jana HoeverStevens, on the left, brings a balance of defensive nous and attacking intent, while Hoever on the right will look to push forward when opportunities arise. However, both will need to track back diligently against the pace of Burns and Broadhead.Midfield Trio: Josh Laurent, Wouter Burger, Daniel JohnsonStoke’s midfield three are expected to be combative. Laurent adds physicality and leadership, Burger provides calm distribution, and Johnson brings creativity and late runs into the box. Their battle with Morsy and Luongo will be pivotal.Forwards: Ryan Mmaee & Tyrese Campbell
- Campbell’s speed and direct running complement Mmaee’s strength and link-up play. Together, they form a partnership that can exploit any lapses in Ipswich’s defence, especially on the counterattack.
Tactical Expectations
Ipswich are expected to dominate possession, especially at home. McKenna’s men will seek to pin Stoke back by stretching play through the wings and creating overloads in midfield. The tempo will likely be quick, with Ipswich looking to unsettle Stoke before they can settle into their shape.
For Stoke, patience and resilience will be key. They will likely sit deep in phases, looking to frustrate Ipswich before springing forward with quick transitions. The wingbacks will be crucial in supporting both defensive and offensive phases, while Campbell’s pace offers their best route to goal.
Key Battles to WatchMorsy vs. Laurent – A duel of captains. Whoever controls this midfield contest could dictate the game’s rhythm.Davis vs. Hoever – Davis’s attacking thrust against Hoever’s defensive discipline promises an intriguing clash.Hirst vs. McNally – Physicality at its peak. If Hirst can hold his own, Ipswich’s midfield trio will have more space to operate.
What’s at Stake
For Ipswich, three points could further cement their place as genuine promotion contenders. Momentum at this stage of the season is priceless, and every win builds belief among players and supporters alike.
For Stoke, the game represents an opportunity to make a statement. An away victory at Portman Road would not only boost morale but also show that they can compete with the Championship’s top sides.
Final Thoughts
This afternoon’s fixture promises to be a fascinating clash of styles: Ipswich’s proactive, possession-driven football against Stoke’s structured, counter-attacking resilience. Both managers have chosen line-ups that reflect their philosophies, and the stage is set for an engaging battle.
Portman Road will once again be alive with atmosphere, the home faithful eager to see their side extend their strong run. For the Tractor Boys, this line-up exudes confidence and intent. For the Potters, it’s about grit and determination. By full-time, we’ll know which approach prevails.
