Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna has explained that defender Ben Johnson’s recent absence from the starting lineup is down to the fierce competition for places within the squad.
The Tractor Boys return to Championship action on Tuesday night when they host Charlton Athletic at Portman Road, looking to respond after last Friday’s 2-1 defeat to Middlesbrough at the Riverside. That result left Ipswich sitting 12th in the table after nine matches, four points adrift of the play-off positions currently occupied by Leicester City, West Bromwich Albion, and Millwall.
McKenna explains Johnson’s absence
Johnson, 25, has featured just four times across all competitions this season — three of those appearances coming in the league. Speaking to TWTD, McKenna praised the full-back’s attitude in training but admitted that strong performances from others have limited his opportunities.
“Ben’s fit and he’s been training really well,” said McKenna. “There’s just really stiff competition at right-back — Darnell [Furlong] and Ashley [Young] have both done well since coming into the side.
“Ben’s a very versatile player and has been working on both sides of defence, even higher up the pitch on the right. He’s definitely in our plans and gives us good options, but right now, almost everyone is available, which makes selection tough.”
Johnson’s journey so far
Johnson joined Ipswich in July 2024 following their promotion to the Premier League, signing a four-year deal until 2028. He made 30 appearances last season, becoming a regular fixture before the club’s relegation alongside Southampton and Leicester City.
Since returning to the Championship, however, Johnson has struggled for minutes amid competition from Furlong, Young, and Leif Davis on both defensive flanks.
Before moving to Suffolk, Johnson spent his entire career at West Ham United, coming through the academy and making 109 senior appearances for the Hammers. The London-born defender was also capped by England at youth level before seeking a new challenge with Ipswich.
Decision time ahead of January
If Johnson’s lack of game time continues, Ipswich may need to reassess his role when the January transfer window opens. With promotion back to the Premier League still the club’s main objective, McKenna faces a balancing act between maintaining depth and keeping players satisfied.
Allowing Johnson to leave — either permanently or on loan — could free up space and funds for reinforcements, but it would also risk leaving the squad short of defensive cover.
Ipswich’s recent inconsistency adds further intrigue to the situation. After a frustrating defeat to Middlesbrough, McKenna will hope his side can rediscover their rhythm when they face Charlton Athletic — a newly promoted side buoyed by their 2-1 win over Sheffield Wednesday and adapting well to life in the Championship.