Ipswich Town’s progress as a football club has been rather static over the past few years, and although they are an established Championship side, it seems like they are a long way from taking the next step up.
The Suffolk-based side are lagging in 15th place in the Championship after picking up 21 points from their opening 16 games of the season.
Manager Mick McCarthy has done extremely well over the past years to keep the Tractor Boys in the hunt for a play-off place but the former Republic of Ireland manager has been under a tight budget that has not enabled him to push his side into the next level.
McCarthy will be anxious to see his side succeed and he needs to discuss transfer terms with the board, if they are to please the fans.
With the January transfer window coming up, it will be a perfect time for Ipswich to push themselves up the table and slip into the chasing promotion pack.
Football League World Writer, Ashley Williams identifies TWO signings that would take Ipswich to the next level…
Joey Barton
The experienced central midfielder has had a rather turbulent career due to his behavioural issues, and now he looks likely to be released by Rangers, he will be available for a free transfer.
Plenty of Championship sides have already signalled their desire to sign the ‘bad boy’ midfielder and we know what he can do in the Championship following last season's excellent year with Burnley.
Barton would be excellent acquisition for Mick McCarthy and he would create a spark in the centre of the pitch with his desire and passion.
Rudy Gestede
The powerful Aston Villa forward has been overlooked this season due to the arrivals of Jonathan Kodjia and Ross McCormack in the summer.
Often used as an impact sub this season, the striker looks dangerous whenever he appears and has one of the best aerial abilities in the league.
Gestede is proven at Championship level and could be suitable replacement for Daryl Murphy who joined Newcastle United in the summer.
Ipswich are among the lowest scorers in the division this season – netting just 14 goals in total – Gestede could be the answer to their problems and his goals could fire them up the league.
Ipswich fans… Are these the two players who would push you into the Premier League? What would be your thoughts if McCarthy signed this pair? Let us know in your thoughts and opinions below!