The new-look Ipswich Town haven't got off to the best start during the 2021-22 season, with Paul Cook's drastic squad changes not having the immediate impact that was perhaps expected.

There was much excitement about the new signings that Cook had brought into the fold, however they could only stumble to a 2-2 draw on the opening day of the League One campaign against relegation favourites Morecambe, with Macauley Bonne saving the Tractor Boys with a late leveller at Portman Road.

And when Cook shuffled the deck in midweek to give the likes of Bonne, Louie Barry and Sone Aluko a chance, Ipswich were downed 1-0 by League Two outfit Newport County in the Carabao Cup.

Attentions must now turn to their first away trip of the season tomorrow as they face a Burton Albion side who have been on a roll since Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink returned to the club at the start of 2021.

Unfortunately for Cook he will be without another defender in the form of Toto Nsiala, who was withdrawn against Morecambe in the first half due to a hamstring injury.

Cook also confirmed that striker James Norwood will also be missing with a hamstring problem picked up in midweek against Newport, but that is a position that there is a lot of depth in already with the likes of Joe Pigott, Bonne, Conor Chaplin and others able to play in.

Another injury doubt is centre-back George Edmundson, who has missed the first two games of the season since signing from Rangers but Cook has not given a guarantee ahead of the trip to the Pirelli Stadium that the 23-year-old is fit and ready to go.

The Verdict

Considering the lack of depth in defence, it is a bit of a blow for Nsiala to have been struck down by an injury - even if he may not be Cook's first-choice when everyone is fit.

It's interesting to see that Cook is playing his cards very close to his chest when it comes to Edmundson though, and he could be set to spring a surprise on Burton by including him for the first time.

Aside from that though, it seems like mostly a fully-fit squad to choose from and Cook certainly has a few selection headaches.

The Tractor Boys have so much depth going forward now that it's going to be extremely hard to keep everyone happy this season, and you imagine a lot of squad rotation is going to be needed.

Judging by the first two matches though, no-one has really staked a massive claim to keep their shirts so it could be a perfect time for someone like Kyle Edwards to come in and take his chance on Saturday.