Kieran McKenna
Context: Kalvin Phillips’ Loan at Ipswich and Rodri’s Injury
Kalvin Phillips, currently on a season-long loan at Ipswich from Manchester City, is set to remain at Portman Road for the entire season, as Ipswich has confirmed there is no recall clause in his contract. Manager Kieran McKenna has emphasized the importance of Phillips staying with the club to regain regular playing time, benefiting both Ipswich and the player’s career development. Meanwhile, Manchester City faces a major blow as their number one midfielder, Rodri, has been ruled out for the rest of the season due to an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained against Arsenal.
Kieran McKenna on Kalvin Phillips’ Loan:
McKenna: “I don’t think there is (a recall clause), but I can’t tell you 100 per cent. I know the plan from our side, from his side, from Man City’s side is that he has a season with us and gets back to playing regularly. It’s about him helping our team and us helping him build up to a good place in his career. That’s 100 per cent the plan.”
Context: Rodri’s Injury and Manchester City’s Loss
Pep Guardiola confirmed that Rodri underwent surgery for his ACL and some meniscus damage, which has ended his season. The injury is a significant setback for City, with Guardiola acknowledging the impact but also expressing support for the player as he begins his recovery.
Pep Guardiola on Rodri’s Injury:
Guardiola: “He had surgery this morning – ACL and some meniscus, so next season he will be here. This season is over. We got the worst [news possible] but it is what it is. Sometimes, unfortunately, it happens. We are there to support him.”
Context: Ipswich Squad Update
Ahead of Ipswich’s Premier League clash with Aston Villa, McKenna also confirmed that Kalvin Phillips has trained with the squad, and Nathan has been in good form, giving the team a nearly fully fit squad.
Kieran McKenna on Squad Fitness:
McKenna: “Kalvin has trained with the group today (Friday), so we’ll make a judgement on how many minutes he’ll be available for. Nathan has been training well for the last week, so we’ve almost got a fully fit squad.”
