Ipswich Town star David McGoldrick says he and his team-mates ‘owe the fans a victory’ over fierce rivals Norwich City, on Sunday.
The 29-year-old Republic of Ireland man has been in great form for the Blues so far this season and is relishing a run at the Canaries on derby day.
McGoldrick’s assists, goals and silky-smooth play have been a delight to watch for the Blues, as ‘Didzy’, with an injury-free run, has managed to stamp his authority on many Town performances.
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However, like all the players in Mick McCarthy’s current squad, he has yet to taste victory against Norwich in a Blues shirt.
And McGoldrick feels it’s about time that changed.
“You shouldn’t be in football if you can’t look forward to big games like Sunday,” McGoldrick said.
“Since I have been here we have never beaten Norwich so hopefully we can end that this weekend.
“I think we have a good chance.
“We have a good squad and perhaps Norwich are not as strong as they have been in the past, though we know they are a good side. We will give it a right go. I think we owe the fans a victory.
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“It’s a great game for the supporters. Derbies always are.
“The passion, the intensity. It’s all there. I played in the Forest v Derby games. They were fierce. It’s the same down here. I’m looking forward to it.”
Ipswich are probably in as good a shape as they have been for many years to at last get that elusive and more recent derby victory, which last came in a 3-2 win at Portman Road back in 2009, when Richard Wright was in goal for the Blues and Jim Magilton was manager.
Last season the two teams drew 1-1 at Portman Road and Carrow Road, with Ipswich’s scorer on both occasions being defender Jonas Knudsen.
He would love to add to that tally on Sunday.
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“If I get a chance to take a shot on Sunday, I’ll definitely take it,” Knudsen said.
“Hopefully it can be a winner this time!
“We need to have leaders on the pitch, and I’ve always liked having a voice. I’m a different person on and off the pitch.”
Kick-off on Sunday is 12 noon.
Read more of David McGoldrick’s thoughts in Sunday’s matchday programme, including him talking about his future for club and country.
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