Ipswich Town go in search of a first Premier League win over one of the division’s traditional heavyweights when Liverpool visit Portman Road on Friday.
Gary O’Neil’s side sit 12th after two matches and will fancy their chances against a Liverpool side yet to win in the league this season.
The Tractor Boys’ promotion-season momentum deserted them at Old Trafford last weekend, but O’Neil has been encouraged by his side’s overall record of six wins from seven games in all competitions, including a run to the second round of the EFL Cup. A near-full-strength squad, freshened up by the arrival of Zian Flemming, gives the head coach selection options he lacked a fortnight ago.
Ipswich Town team news
Ipswich will again be without Azor Matusiwa, who is continuing his recovery from a muscle injury, while Jack Taylor remains sidelined with a knee problem. Jaden Philogene is also out, though Gary O’Neil described the winger as “close” to a return during his pre-match press conference.
There is better news up front: Emersonn, who was withdrawn at half-time against Manchester United after jarring his knee, has trained fully this week and was confirmed fit by O’Neil, who said there are “no concerns” over his recovery.
Florentino Luis is available for the first time this season, having overcome a calf issue, giving O’Neil a fresh option in central midfield alongside Marcelino Nunez and Sasa Lukic. Deadline-day arrival Zian Flemming, signed from Burnley for around £20m, is also in contention after completing his move on transfer deadline day.
O’Neil has been weighing up his attacking approach, suggesting Julio Enciso could operate as a false nine against Liverpool’s back two, or that Ipswich could go more direct by pairing Flemming with Emersonn up front.
Ipswich Town predicted lineup
Ipswich Town possible starting XI (4-2-3-1): Scherpen; O’Shea, Diop, Greaves, Davis; Nunez, Lukic; Fatawu, Enciso, Maeda; Emersonn
When will the match kick off?
The Premier League match kicks off at 20:00 on Friday, 4 September 2026.
How to watch Ipswich Town vs Liverpool?
The match will be broadcast live on Sky Sports Main Event in the UK, with coverage starting at 7pm BST.
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