George Hirst has found himself at the centre of discussion once again as Ipswich Town navigate a crucial stage of their season. With goals hard to come by in recent weeks, attention has inevitably turned to the striker’s form — and head coach Kieran McKenna has offered a clear and measured assessment.
Hirst’s campaign has been one of hard work and flashes of promise, but also scrutiny. As a centre-forward, his game will always be judged on numbers — goals, assists, decisive contributions. Yet McKenna has consistently urged supporters and pundits alike to look beyond the raw statistics. According to the Town boss, Hirst’s value to the team stretches far deeper than what appears on the scoresheet.
Speaking recently, McKenna emphasised the striker’s physical presence and willingness to lead the line. Hirst’s ability to occupy defenders, press aggressively from the front, and bring teammates into play remains central to Ipswich’s attacking structure. In McKenna’s tactical setup, the number nine is not simply a finisher but the starting point of the press and a focal point for transitional moments.
There have been matches where Hirst has battled tirelessly against physically imposing backlines, creating space for wide players and attacking midfielders to exploit. Even when goals have not followed, his work rate has rarely dipped. McKenna pointed out that strikers often go through spells where confidence can fluctuate, but the solution is rarely dramatic change — instead, it is consistency in preparation and trust in the process.
The manager also highlighted the importance of service. Ipswich’s attacking rhythm has at times lacked fluidity, particularly against compact defensive units. In those moments, the burden on a lone striker becomes heavier. McKenna was quick to defend Hirst in that regard, noting that collective improvement in chance creation will naturally reflect in improved returns for the frontman.
Supporters will remember that Hirst has delivered in big moments before. His knack for intelligent movement inside the penalty area and his aerial threat make him a constant danger. McKenna suggested that one goal can often be the catalyst for a strong run of form — something the coaching staff firmly believe is around the corner.
There is also a psychological dimension. Strikers thrive on confidence, and McKenna’s public backing is no accident. By reinforcing belief in Hirst’s qualities, he is shielding his player from unnecessary external pressure. The Ipswich boss has built a culture where development is prioritised over panic, and individual dips are addressed through support rather than criticism.
Importantly, McKenna dismissed any notion that Hirst’s place is under immediate threat. Competition for places is healthy, he said, but selection decisions are based on overall contribution as much as finishing statistics. Hirst’s understanding of the team’s pressing triggers and positional rotations gives him an edge that numbers alone do not capture.
As Ipswich approach a defining stretch of fixtures, the spotlight will remain on their number nine. Goals change narratives quickly in football. For Hirst, the ingredients — work ethic, physical tools, tactical understanding — are already in place.
McKenna’s message was clear: patience, perspective and persistence. If Ipswich continue to function cohesively, their striker’s drought may soon turn into momentum. And when that happens, the conversation around George Hirst’s form could look very different indeed.
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