January signing Ali Al-Hamadi has made an encouraging start to life at Ipswich Town. Stuart Watson spoke to the striker.
To say it’s been a whirlwind two years for Ali Al-Hamadi is an understatement.
Less than two years ago, he was playing for National League side Bromley on loan from League One outfit Wycombe Wanderers.
In January 2023, he signed for League Two side AFC Wimbledon and promptly scored 27 goals in 48 appearances.
In January 2024, in the middle of representing Iraq at the Asian Cup, he signed for Premier League promotion-chasing Ipswich Town in a £1m+ deal.
“I had an eight-hour flight back (from Qatar) and I was thinking about how it had been a mental year or two for me,” he says.
“It was a powerful moment for me to reflect on all that had happened and, at the same time, to look ahead to what else I wanted to achieve.
“At the moment there are so many games, so it’s just focus and head down. I’m sure there will be a time for more reflection in the summer when we’re in the Premier League.”
That last sentence is delivered with a cheeky smile.
“I’m quite a confident person and I’ve always been like that – I’ll fit in anywhere I go,” says the 21-year-old. “It feels like I’ve been here longer than just a few.
It really does. Any fears that the youngster might be overawed by the step up of two divisions were quickly quashed by his impactful debut cameo at Preston North End. That, remember, came off the back of just a couple of training sessions with his new teammates.
Further bustling sub displays have come against West Brom, Millwall, Swansea and Rotherham. He won and scored a penalty to secure a 4-0 victory at The Den, then played a key role in Omari Hutchinson’s dramatic stoppage-time winner against the Millers.
It’s clear that, already, supporters are in love with his energetic approach and passionate personality.
“Some of the boys have said they can’t believe I’ve had my own chant already!” laughed the Liverpool-raised youngster.
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