x

Drury Returns at Watford - Ipswich Town News

Town boss Paul Jewell has as expected recalled Andy Drury in place of the suspended Grant Leadbitter for this afternoon’s game at Vicarage Road. The starting XI is otherwise unchanged with Luke Hyam added to the bench.

Jack Ainsley is the unlucky man from the 17-man party which made the trip to Hertfordshire.

The Blues are looking to end their Watford hoodoo having failed to beat the Hornets in 14 games home and away in all competitions since March 2004 when a Dean Bowditch hat-trick and a rarity from Jermaine Wright condemned the Hornets to a 4-1 defeat at Portman Road.

The Blues' last victory at Vicarage Road was in September 2003 when a debut goal from sub Shefki Kuqi and a superb chip by Jim Magilton saw Joe Royle's men to a 2-1 win, Scott Fitzgerald netting for the Hornets.

Watford make two changes, John Eustace coming in for Prince Buaben and Joe Garner for Chris Iwelumo. Full match preview here.

Watford: Kuszczak, Doyley, Nosworthy, Taylor, Dickinson, Murray, Hogg, Eustace (c), Kacaniklic, Deeney, Garner. Subs: Loach , Bennett, Buaben, Iwelumo, Assombalonga.

Town: McCarthy, Edwards (c), Smith, Delaney, Cresswell, Bowyer, Drury, Emmanuel-Thomas, Martin, Murphy, Chopra. Subs: Lee-Barrett, Sonko, Hyam, Stevenson, Carson.

What to read next:

Morsy: The Best Spell of My Career and Life
Departing Town captain Sam Morsy has issued a message to fans, teammates, manager Kieran McKenna and his staff following confirmation of his move to Kuwait SC, while the squad and ex-players have paid their own tributes to the Egyptian international.
Town Confirm Morsy Exit For Kuwait SC
Town skipper Sam Morsy’s move to Kuwait SC has been confirmed.
Town Announce Matchday Ticket Prices
Town have confirmed their matchday ticket prices for the Championship season ahead.
Luongo Close to Joining Millwall
Former Blues midfielder Massimo Luongo is closing in on joining Millwall following his trial with the Lions.
Eze Nets Twice as U19s Draw Opener at Czech Tournament
Striker Nelson Eze scored twice as an U19 Town side drew 2-2 with hosts Banik Ostrava in their opening match at the Zlaty Kahan tournament in Czechia yesterday.
Young: Working With McKenna Again Was a Massive Pull
New Blues signing Ashley Young says manager Kieran McKenna played a big part in his decision to join Town having left Everton at the end of last season.
Town Confirm Young Signing
Town have confirmed the signing of veteran former England international Ashley Young on a one-year deal.
[Podcast] Blue Monday - New Podcast Now Online
A new podcast from the Blue Monday team is now available.
Released Forward Roberts Joins Stevenage
Released Blues U21s forward Matty Roberts has joined League One Stevenage following a trial.
Young Close to Completing Town Move
Veteran former England international Ashley Young is close to completing a move to the Blues on a one-year deal.