Ipswich Town midfielder Jack Taylor faced the media ahead of Sunday’s crunch clash with Middlesbrough, offering an honest assessment of the promotion race, the pressure surrounding Town this season and the importance of responding after a mixed week of highs and lows.
From Underdogs to Targets
This time around, Taylor said, things just seem off somehow. Back in 2023/24, Ipswich had everyone talking, rookies turning heads, climbing fast, grabbing second spot, then punching above their weight to reach the top flight for the first time in nearly two decades.
This time, he senses a shift.
“Last time we were newly promoted, maybe underdogs in many people’s eyes… Now, everyone seems like they’d be happy if we failed, I think.”
He stressed the importance of blocking out outside noise.
“If you look into that sort of stuff, the more you can block out the better. Hopefully, by the 3rd of May, we’re there.”
Derby Delight, Pompey Disappointment
It has been a week of extremes for Ipswich. The historic East Anglian derby double, the first since 1992/93, was followed by a flat 2–0 defeat at Portsmouth.
Taylor didn’t hide his frustration.
“The Norwich game was a real high… We’re really disappointed with Tuesday. We were way below the standards we’ve set.”
He was clear that such a drop‑off cannot happen again with so much at stake.
On the Promotion Race
With five games to go and a game in hand, Ipswich remain in control of their own destiny. Taylor knows exactly what’s required.
“We’ve got really difficult fixtures coming up… You need to go and win that game in hand.”
Sunday’s clash with Middlesbrough feels pivotal.
“That’s going to set us off in good stead if we pick up another three points there.”
No Extra Points, but No Hiding Either
The outside world may frame Sunday as season‑defining, but Taylor kept a level head.
“Every game now is as important… You don’t get extra points against Middlesbrough than you do against Charlton on Wednesday.”
He also made it clear that Ipswich won’t shy away from the moment.
“We’re going to take the game head‑on. Hopefully we’ll come out with a win.”
Respect for Boro and a Score To Settle
Middlesbrough arrive at Portman Road winless in six, but Taylor isn’t fooled by the form table.
“We know the quality they’ve got… When we went to their place, they were definitely the best side on the night.”
He didn’t hide the motivation.
Hackney Doubt Doesn’t Change Taylor’s Mindset
Star midfielder Hayden Hackney is a major doubt for Boro, but Taylor insisted it won’t alter his approach.
“To be honest, I’m not too bothered if he plays or not… No matter who I’m playing against, I try and get the better of them.”
He also acknowledged that injuries are simply part of the game.
“Every club goes through it and sometimes you lose your best players.”
Hannah Darbyshire
I am a 19 year old freelance football writer who covers Ipswich Town’s women’s, men’s, and academy teams. A regular at Portman Road and club fixtures across Suffolk, she brings clear, grounded match coverage shaped by a genuine connection to the game.