An experienced Championship manager has offered a clear blueprint for how to approach Ipswich Town, insisting there is “only one way” to play against Kieran McKenna’s slick, possession-heavy side — and it is advice that could prove crucial for Gary Rowett.

Ipswich have built a reputation under Kieran McKenna for dominating the ball, stretching teams with intelligent movement and patiently probing for openings. Their structure, built around composure in possession and sharp counter-pressing when they lose it, has made them one of the most difficult sides in the division to contain. Opponents who sit too deep often find themselves pinned back for long spells, while those who press without coordination risk being sliced open.

That is why the unnamed Championship boss believes the solution is clarity and bravery. According to him, the only way to truly disrupt Ipswich is to engage them higher up the pitch — but in a controlled, collective manner. “You can’t half-press them,” he explained. “If you go, you all go. If you sit, you really sit. Anything in between and they’ll play through you.”

It is a message that Rowett will understand well. Known for his pragmatic style, defensive organisation and ability to set up sides that are hard to beat, Rowett has often favoured compact shapes and disciplined lines. However, against a team like Ipswich, passive defending can be dangerous. Their midfield rotations create overloads, and their full-backs push aggressively to stretch the play.

The advice centres on disrupting rhythm. Ipswich thrive when matches are played at their tempo — steady build-up, quick switches of play, and carefully timed forward runs. Breaking that rhythm with physicality, well-timed pressing triggers and fast transitions is seen as key. Winning second balls, challenging aerially and making the contest scrappy could tilt the balance.

There is also the psychological element. Ipswich’s confidence has grown with each positive result, and allowing them early dominance only fuels that belief. An assertive start — strong tackles, loud communication, quick counters — can send a different message. The Championship boss suggested that forcing Ipswich into longer passes, rather than allowing them to build from the back, is vital. “Make it uncomfortable. Make them play where they don’t want to play,” he added.

For Rowett, the challenge lies in striking the right balance. Overcommitting could leave gaps for Ipswich’s clinical attackers to exploit. Yet retreating into a low block for 90 minutes would invite relentless pressure. The solution may lie in situational aggression — pressing in key moments, particularly from goal-kicks or throw-ins, then resetting into a compact shape when the first wave is beaten.

Squad selection will also play a part. Energy in midfield, pace in wide areas and a striker capable of holding the ball up under pressure are all essential tools in executing this plan. Discipline, too, will be non-negotiable; one lapse in concentration against Ipswich can quickly turn into a goal.

Ultimately, the advice is straightforward but demanding: commitment. Whether pressing high or defending deep, the collective must move as one. Ipswich’s cohesion is their strength — to beat them, opponents must show equal unity.

If Rowett can translate that guidance into a clear, fearless game plan, his side may yet find a way to blunt one of the Championship’s most polished outfits.