Oxford United travel to Ipswich on Saturday afternoon to face Paul Cook’s Tractor Boys. Ahead of the game, we spoke to Ipswich fan and writer for TWDT.co.uk, Thomas Lane.
Read: Preview – Ipswich v Oxford
Where do you think you’ll finish this season?
Early on I was expecting this kind of run. Struggles due to new squad being put together, with it eventually coming together. With the form of Wigan and Rotherham, I think we have enough about us to finish third or fourth this season.
Who do you think will finish in the top six?
Alongside Wigan, Rotherham and Ipswich as the top three, I can see Wycombe recovering enough to get themselves in the play offs. If Taylor stays fit then Oxford could sneak in, with Sheffield Wednesday taking sixth on the final day.
Who do you think will finish in the bottom four?
Only a few months in to the season, but Crewe Alexandra and Doncaster look far away from the rest. I think Morecambe’s honeymoon period has ended, and they’ll struggle from now on. 21st place? Gillingham, just because of Steve Evans!
Key Player(s) for Ipswich?
Can’t look past Macauley Bonne for this. Everything falling into place for him this season, always looks dangerous in the box. Wes Burns is my MVP, outstanding wide player. Sam Morsy has turned zero points into at least one, tenacious and driven.
Any absentees through injury or suspension?
On-loan left-back Hayden Coulson looks to be out after injury against Wycombe Wanderers. Right-back Kane Vincent-Young damaged his shoulder on Tuesday night. Tom Carroll and Jon Nolan are long term absentees. Everyone else should be fit and ready.
Thoughts on Paul Cook?
The man with two personality’s. Speaks the truth and owns his mistakes. Past success shows his credentials, and is beginning to notice flaws in his early season decision making. Lack of defensive coach/assistant manager still a worry.
A word on your team playing style?
Swashbuckling.
Any Oxford players you would like to see in your team?
Cameron Brannagan alongside Sam Morsy would be a dream. We know Cook is a big fan, maybe a cheeky bid goes in if we get to the Championship?
Thoughts on Oxford United?
Historically boring games between our two teams. We love a 0-0, but can see lots of goals in this game. Impressive ability to keep certain aspects of the team, and the ability to replace areas in the defence with similar talents. Should have gone up two years ago, we all dislike Wycombe!
Form?
Much stronger than it was. One loss in nine games in all competitions, top goal-scorers in League One.
What do you think the score will be?
Goals should be a guarantee for both sides. A draw wouldn’t be the end of the world, but if we want to make inroads on teams like Oxford, then a win is needed. 3-2.
Random fact about your club?
Paul Cook has made more signings this season (20) than Sir Bobby Robson did during his 13-year spell as Ipswich manager!
