In the 1960s and 1970s, Ipswich Town was a major club in England. A national title, FA Cup and UEFA Cup were won, but after that things fell apart and they were often forced to play football at the second level. The last time the English played in the Premier League was in 2002.
When relegation to League One became a reality in 2019, concerns were great in Ipswich. At the third level, they struggled for several years in the middle bracket, until a relatively unknown trainer was appointed. Manchester United FC assistant Kieran McKenna was appointed to lead the club back to the Championship.
Last season, they finished second under his leadership and thus achieved promotion. After promotion, McKenna’s team continued to happily win. The attacking style of play continued in the Championship, resulting in a top-flight finish.
To actually enforce promotion, Leeds United FC still had to be settled. Due to a 4-0 defeat of Leeds United at Queens Park Rangers FC last week, Ipswich Town were in pole position this week. As long as it did not lose to Huddersfield Town FC, promotion was a fact.
It was an absolute party afternoon on Portman Road. The already relegated Huddersfield Town were easily pushed aside 2-0, before a pitch invasion took place. The most famous Ipswich supporter was not present: Ed Sheeran was at the Grand Prix in Miami.
The world-famous singer grew up in the city and therefore became a supporter of the club. His love for the club is so great that he decides to become main sponsor in 2021. Since then, Sheeran’s world tour has been featured on the shirts of Ipswich Town. Despite his absence from the promotional match, the artist can often be found on Portman Road. That will be no different in the Premier League next season.
It became clear in the previous round that Leicester City FC would become champions and thus earn promotion. The last Premier League ticket will be fought for in the play-offs. Leeds United, Southampton FC, West Bromwich Albion FC and Norwich City FC will decide at Wembley who will play at the highest level next season.