Ipswich Town’s remarkable rise in English football under Kieran McKenna has been one of the most compelling stories of the past two seasons. The Tractor Boys have gone from Championship contenders to Premier League competitors with a brand of football that has earned praise across the country. Much of the attention has been on exciting young players like Jaden Philogene, whose performances have lit up Portman Road, but this time it is another Ipswich talent grabbing the headlines. Both McKenna and former England striker Darren Bent have hailed a different star as “sensational,” underlining just how strong Ipswich’s squad has become.
The player in question is none other than midfielder Conor Chaplin, who has been central to Ipswich’s creative force. Chaplin, a dynamic presence in the middle of the park, has been instrumental in linking play, dictating tempo, and producing key goals and assists when the team needed them most. McKenna, speaking after a recent victory, described Chaplin’s display as “absolutely sensational,” praising his work rate, pressing intensity, and decision-making in possession. For a manager who rarely singles out individuals, the comment spoke volumes.
“He was everywhere today,” McKenna said. “His energy set the tone, his quality on the ball kept us calm, and his goal was the icing on the cake. Performances like this are why he is so important to what we’re building here.”
Darren Bent, an Ipswich academy graduate himself, echoed the sentiment during a punditry appearance on talkSPORT. Bent noted that while Philogene’s flair and highlight-reel moments have caught the public eye, Chaplin’s consistency is what has truly elevated Ipswich this season. “Conor Chaplin doesn’t always get the headlines because he’s not doing a back-heel or a 30-yard screamer every week, but he is the heartbeat of that team,” Bent said. “He’s intelligent, hard-working, and always seems to pop up in the right areas. That’s what makes him sensational.”
Indeed, Chaplin’s numbers back up the praise. He ranks among the top midfielders in the league for chances created, progressive passes, and pressing recoveries. His ability to transition quickly from defense to attack has been vital in McKenna’s high-tempo system, which relies on quick ball circulation and coordinated movement.
What makes this recognition even more notable is the timing. Ipswich are in the middle of a crucial run of fixtures, fighting to secure a top-half Premier League finish and perhaps even push for European football. Having a player like Chaplin operating at peak level gives them a real edge, especially when opponents are doubling up on Philogene to neutralize his threat.
For Ipswich fans, this is exactly what they want to hear — that their success isn’t built on one man, but on a collective with multiple match-winners. McKenna’s praise suggests that Chaplin is not just a cog in the machine but a driving force. Bent’s endorsement reinforces the idea that neutrals are beginning to take notice of what Ipswich are doing and how they are doing it.
If Chaplin keeps up this form, the headlines may soon be his every week. For now, Ipswich supporters will be delighted that their midfield maestro is finally getting the recognition he deserves — and that the club has more than one “sensational” star in their ranks.
Be the first to comment