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What went right at Ipswich

Under American ownership group Gamechanger 20, who bought out businessman Marcus Evans in April 2021, Ipswich’s transformation from languishing former UEFA Cup winners to ambitious achievers is complete.

Avoiding the play-offs has enabled the early launch of the latest phase of serious investment in the club’s infrastructure: the relaying and multi-million-pound modernisation of the pitch. Proper irrigation channels are being dug, undersoil heating laid, pop-up sprinklers installed and a hybrid pitch set to be grown over the summer months.

It is the latest investment by the new ownership, who bought out the unpopular Evans after 13 years of ownership in a deal worth around £40million ($50m).

The trio of American businessmen have experience in football with USL side Phoenix Rising, but the majority owners (90 per cent of shares) belong to a US investment firm called ORG, which manages pensions. The takeover saw Ipswich’s debts of around £100million effectively wiped and the group pledged further investment, including plans for the redevelopment of the changing rooms, canteen and the pitch at the training ground, requested by manager McKenna.

Portman Road has been spruced up and attendances have made it a fortress this season, with a combination of winning football and a re-engagement with the community bringing renewed connection between the fans and club. Over 29,000 were in the crowd for the promotion decider as a new generation experienced their first taste of success after consecutive League One finishes of 11th, 9th and 11th and no promotions since 1999-2000.

McKenna’s management style has produced intriguing coaching techniques, such as using former Manchester United goalkeeper Lee Grant to help coach the club’s attacking players, including top scorer Chaplin, and not troubling players with formation or system changes but tailoring instructions to their specific role.

McKenna’s ability to develop players was a key draw for the recruitment team when Ipswich were looking for Cook’s replacement, and their decision to hire the 35-year-old in his first managerial position has paid off handsomely.

Smart recruitment, smart manager, smart players.   Ipswich are back and it’s only the beginning.

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