Kieran McKenna faced the media this afternoon as Ipswich Town continued preparations for Saturday’s home fixture against Leicester City, a game shaped by the Foxes’ recent managerial change and the quality that still runs through their squad.
McKenna struck a measured tone as he previewed the contest, acknowledging Leicester’s strength while stressing the importance of Ipswich imposing itself at home.
With new signings settling quickly and key players still working back to fitness, the Town boss outlined the focus, mentality and clarity he expects from his group heading into another significant Championship test.
Kieran McKenna says Ipswich Town will be facing a Leicester City side packed with quality and driven by a clear motivation when they arrive at Portman Road.
He described the Foxes as “one of the strongest sides in the division, maybe the strongest when you look at Premier League appearances and international caps,” and stressed that it will be up to Town to show they can better that level on home soil.
McKenna admitted it would be satisfying to finally get one over Leicester, though not because of any lingering frustration.
He reflected on “draws that felt like victories” in 2023/24 and the “stinging injustice” of their Premier League meeting at Portman Road, along with defeats at the King Power.
Even so, he insisted the focus is firmly on tomorrow, not the past.
Asked whether Gary Rowett chasing his first Leicester win changes anything, McKenna said that’s for the Foxes to determine.
He pointed to their two positive away results under Rowett, noting they “could have won at Stoke and Middlesbrough but drew,” and expects a well‑organised, motivated opponent.
McKenna praised the early impact of Dan Neil and Anis Mehmeti, saying Ipswich always expected both to settle quickly.
He highlighted Mehmeti’s Championship experience and said they believed Neil could make a big contribution despite limited minutes before joining.
Kieran McKenna has confirmed that Jaden Philogene is making steady progress in his recovery but will not be available for Ipswich Town’s meeting with Leicester City.
The winger has been sidelined since January 17th after suffering an MCL injury in the win over Blackburn Rovers, and while he has stepped up his ball work, McKenna says he is “not ready to be involved.”
Ashley Young will also miss out, with McKenna adding that there is “not much change” elsewhere in the squad.
Goalkeeper David Button is managing a minor calf issue and is expected to return to training next week.
McKenna remains hopeful Philogene will be back soon, but for now, the focus is on ensuring his recovery continues without setbacks.
Kieran McKenna explained why Leif Davis has recently dropped out of the starting XI, stressing that it’s part of managing his workload across a demanding run of fixtures.
He said Davis’ output against Swansea City was “the highest he’s had since joining Ipswich Town,” and that the defender experienced some muscle tightness afterwards.
Davis featured briefly against Hull City in midweek and is now ready for tomorrow, with McKenna adding that decisions were made carefully around the Saturday–Tuesday schedule to protect players and keep them available.
