adminKieran McKenna’s message to Azor Matusiwa, Jaden Philogene after on-pitch row in Ipswich Town’s draw with Watford
Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna has reminded Azor Matusiwa and Jaden Philogene to save arguments for behind closed doors after their mid-game row against Watford.
Ipswich Town played out a 1-1 draw with Watford on Tuesday night. Imran Louza opened the scoring for the visitors, before Jaden Philogene’s equaliser.
The ITFC wing star was involved in another big talking point from the Portman Road clash too. Azor Matusiwa and Philogene were seen exchanging heated words during the game, with captain Dara O’Shea and Darnell Furlong stepping in to calm the angered Matusiwa.
Fans were understandably left questioning the incident, with McKenna spotted giving Matusiwa a light reprimanding post-game. And, speaking to BBC Radio Suffolk, the Ipswich Town boss reminded both players not to let such tensions boil over on the pitch again.
“It was just two people working really hard and wanting to win the game – it’s better if it happens in the dressing room, but in reality it happens in football.
“Both people were just trying to help their team win the game, so no issue and we’ll move on. They know you shouldn’t argue with a teammate on the pitch, not for the team, but for the crowd, because you don’t want to give the wrong perception. Arguments happen all the time but should happen behind closed doors.”
On-pitch Ipswich Town argument won’t ease fan concerns
Ipswich Town are still performing below expectations as they adjust to life back in the Championship. They sit 10th in the table, two points away from the play-offs.
Performances and results have picked up of late, taking seven points from the last three games. It is worth putting forward that ITFC put in a solid display against Watford too, simply failing to come good on their chances and control.
However, as fans wait to see this group really gel, seeing two players argue on pitch won’t help.
Of course, as McKenna says, players argue all the team – and not just in underachieving teams. But, doing so in the spotlight during the middle of the game does not send a good message regarding squad cohesion or togetherness.
Ipswich Town out to enter the break on a high
After a frustrating midweek outing, Ipswich Town will be determined to enter the international break on a high. Up next this weekend is a clash with Swansea City, who sit 17th in the table amid some inconsistent form.
The Swans have become a far tougher side to break down under Alan Sheehan, but they lack attacking vigour. It could set up to be a challenging game for ITFC, especially if frustrations between players boil over again.
Win though, and Town may well enter the break in the play-off spots with 10 points from a possible 12.
Going into the break with strong form behind them could prove key in the bid to kick this season into action over the winter.
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