Ipswich Town FC secured promotion to the Premier League for the second time in three seasons on Saturday, but Norwich City FC great Chris Sutton still found time to mock the Tractor Boys.
Kieran McKenna’s side clinched automatic promotion with a 3-0 win over Queens Park Rangers FC at Portman Road, finishing slightly ahead of their opponents to confirm their return to the top flight. George Hirst, Jaden Philogene-Bidace, and Kasey McAteer scored goals, causing home fans to celebrate.
Despite his accomplishment, Sutton couldn’t resist reigniting the rivalry. While praising Ipswich’s success and McKenna’s efforts, he predicted the team will face a difficult task in the Premier League next season.
Ipswich’s previous tenure in the top division ended in disappointment, with only four wins from 38 games and a big distance to safety. That experience now serves as a warning as McKenna prepares his squad for another chance at survival.
The Tractor Boys’ amazing climb, which included back-to-back promotions from EFL League One to the Premier League, has received much accolades. However, it remains unclear whether the group is strong enough to compete at the highest level.
Last summer’s recruitment was viewed as a major role in their previous troubles. Aside from Liam Delap, who led the league with 12 goals, many newcomers struggled to adjust to Premier League expectations.
As Ipswich celebrates their latest promotion, Sutton’s words have heightened an already heated East Anglian rivalry, paving the way for more drama if the two sides meet again in the near future.
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