Preview: Blackburn Rovers vs. Ipswich Town – forecast, squad updates, expected lineups
By Ben Knapton, Senior Reporter | March 27, 2024
With a favorable outcome on Good Friday, Ipswich Town could find themselves leading the Championship table over the Easter weekend, but first, they face a challenge at Edwood Park against Blackburn Rovers.
Kieran McKenna’s squad showcased their strength by defeating Sheffield Wednesday 6-0 just before the international break, while Blackburn’s winless streak continued with a goalless draw against Middlesbrough.
Match Overview
Despite gaining recognition for his management tenure at Birmingham City, which was prematurely ended, John Eustace is yet to secure a victory in his reign at Blackburn Rovers. Since his arrival, Blackburn has become accustomed to draws, including their recent 1-1 stalemates against Plymouth Argyle and Millwall. The hosts, currently in 17th place, are only three points above the relegation zone, and their Easter record has been historically poor.
In contrast, Ipswich Town is in exceptional form, with seven wins in their last eight Championship matches. Their recent 6-0 victory over Sheffield Wednesday showcased their attacking prowess, placing them just one point behind league leaders Leeds United and Leicester City. However, Ipswich hasn’t won in their last 11 league matches at Ewoud Park.
Team News
Blackburn’s winger Arno Sigurdsson suffered an injury during Iceland’s Euro 2024 playoff match against Israel, which could sideline him for several weeks. Additionally, John Buckley is a doubt after picking up an injury in training. Several other players, including Hayden Carter and Joe Rankin-Costello, are unavailable due to injury or suspension.
For Ipswich, winger Wes Burns sustained an injury during the Sheffield Wednesday match and is expected to be out for an extended period. George Hirst and Conor Chaplin are also doubtful due to injuries, while Lewis Travis is ineligible to play against his parent club.
Predicted Lineups
Blackburn Rovers:
Pears; McFadzean, Hyam, Wharton; Brittain, Tronstad, Ayari, Pickering; Hedges, Simovics; Gallagher
Ipswich Town:
Hladky; Tanzeem, Woolfenden, Burgess, Davis; Morsy, Luongo; Sarmiento, Hutchinson, Broadhead; Moore
Prediction
Despite Blackburn’s attacking threats, their lack of a winning formula and ongoing injury concerns make it likely that their winless streak will continue against Ipswich, who are eager to claim the top spot in the Championship table. Prediction: Blackburn Rovers 1-3 Ipswich Town.
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