The Canaries have enjoyed dominance in this fixture over recent times, but suffered their first defeat to the Blues in 16 years when they were beaten 3-1 at Portman Road in October. Since Philippe Clement’s arrival at City in November, both teams have taken an impressive 49 points.
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City bounce into the contest having come from behind at the Den to beat promotion-chasing Millwall 2-1 courtesy of goals from Pelle Mattsson and Oscar Schwartau. That was a boost to Ipswich, who moved back into second-place after edging past Birmingham.
Clement offered a positive injury bulletin at Colney on Friday, confirming that key defensive duo Ruairi McConville and Kellen Fisher had both trained and were available for this afternoon’s clash.
That is more welcome fitness news after City were boosted by the return of Mohamed Toure, Ben Chrisene, Oscar Schwartau and Jack Stacey all making their respective fitness comebacks over the Easter weekend. Jeff Schlupp has returned to training, but requires more time before he can be considered for a return to Championship action.
Left-backs Lucien Mahovo and Harry Amass remain sidelined with their respective muscular issues, with the latter returning to parent club Manchester United. Experienced defender Shane Duffy hasn’t kicked a ball since November. Top scorer Jovon Makama is continuing his rehab from a broken foot, but has an outside chance of returning for the end of the season.
Ante Crnac and Mirko Topic have been ruled out for the rest of the season after suffering ACL injuries. Matej Jurask is another player sidelined after a foot injury, whilst Papa Amadou Diallo is still absent.
Ipswich are looking for their first win at Carrow Road in over 20 years, since a 2-1 victory in February 2006. That would also mark their first derby double since the 1992-93 campaign.
Kieran McKenna’s men could be without key duo Ivan Azon and Azor Matusiwa, who were set for a late assessment for this fixture, but Wes Burns will definitely miss the trip to Norfolk. Leif Davis returns from a three-game suspension, and Jaden Philogene is looking for his first start since January. Marcelino Nunez, subject of a controversial cross-border switch last summer, is set for his first return to Carrow Road.
Norwich are hoping to continue their impressive surge up the Championship table under Clement, while Ipswich know a win would be vital in their pursuit of automatic promotion.
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