Kieran McKenna reveals what is ‘incredible’ about Newcastle United ahead of Ipswich Town clash

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Kieran McKenna is facing Newcastle United for the first time in his career on Saturday.

Ipswich Town welcome Newcastle United to Portman Road, as two of Sir Bobby Robson’s former sides prepare to face off in the Premier League.

For the Magpies, it is a chance to make it three wins in a row and climb the Premier League table. For Ipswich, it is a chance to secure their first home win of the season.

On paper, Eddie Howe’s side should win. Paul Merson has predicted Newcastle to beat Ipswich, while Chris Sutton has also backed the Magpies.

It is a huge task for Ipswich Town, and their manager is well aware of the upcoming challenge.

Kieran McKenna praises Newcastle United

Ahead of Ipswich Town vs Newcastle United, Kieran McKenna has spoken to the media.

He was full of praise for the Magpies, hailing their ‘incredible athleticism’.

“They’re in good form and have outstanding qualities, so we’ll go into it humble,” he said, as reported by the East Anglian Daily Times.

“But we believe in ourselves and go into it excited. The game before Christmas always feels extra special.”

McKenna added: “They’re in good form, have incredible athleticism, it’s a club that was in the Champions League not so long ago. We’re going to have to be close to our best just to compete and I’m sure our supporters know that.”

Newcastle will miss some athleticism vs Ipswich

McKenna is well aware of Newcastle United’s athletic qualities, but the Magpies will not be at full strength in that department on Saturday.

That is because Joelinton is suspended, after picking up his fifth booking of the season against Leicester City.

Eddie Howe thinks Joelinton’s suspension could be a blessing, as he is forced to miss the Ipswich game on the back of needing stitches on Wednesday. The 28-year-old was involved in a nasty looking incident against Brentford, and will probably benefit from the additional recovery time ahead of his next game.

But it is a blow for Newcastle, who will miss the Brazilian’s power in midfield.

Sean Longstaff or Joe Willock will take his place, as Eddie Howe ponders who should start in the middle alongside Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.

As part of Geordie Boot Boys’ predicted Newcastle XI to face Ipswich, Longstaff starts in place of Joelinton.