Blues duo Adam McDonnell and George Fowler say their loan move to Vanarama National League Aldershot is just what they need at this stage of their careers.
Midfielder McDonnell, 20, and defender Fowler, 19, joined the Shots for an initial month on Wednesday and could make their debuts in Saturday’s game at home to Solihull Moors.
Former Irish U19 international McDonnell, who joined the Blues from hos hometown club Shelbourne in the summer of 2014, feels he really needed a spell out on loan last season having made his Championship debut at Derby on the final day of 2015/16.
"I probably should have gone out on loan last year, last year wasn’t a good year,” he told the Aldershot club site.
"I’ve come on a few times [this season] and started against Palace, so it’s good the gaffer’s got a little bit of trust in me back again.
"Now I just need to prove I can do it in the [National League] and do it in men’s football, then hopefully I can get more of a chance at Ipswich.”
He added: "I want to get as many games under my belt. Obviously it’s a month, although it can be extended. Playing men’s football is better U23s, it’s competitive, there’s three points at stake and I can’t wait to get into it.”
Former Debenham High School pupil Fowler, who spent time training with the Shots last season, says he similarly is at a point where his development will benefit from a spell out on loan, having made his senior debut in the Carabao Cup tie at Crystal Palace.
"In order for me to progress from where I am now it’s something I need to do now,” he said.
"I’m looking to impress and play well whilst I’m here, get wins for Aldershot and get us up the leaderboard.”
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s match, he added: "If needed I’m definitely ready, I’ve been looking forward to that. It’ll be good to get my first game in the [National League].”