Flynn Downes has admitted he is still getting used to playing in a more advanced midfield role, but is enjoying the opportunity to get forward and help out in attack.
The Ipswich Town youngster has played as a deep-lying midfielder throughout much of his time in youth football, as well as during last season’s loan spell at Luton, but has been asked to play further forward by Blues boss Paul Lambert.
The 20-year-old lined up alongside Andre Dozzell while Trevoh Chalobah sat deeper in Monday’s 1-0 loss to Swansea and enjoyed some good attacking moments, earning him the sponsors’ man-of-the-match award.
While Lambert has hinted he could also see Downes play in the deeper role in the future, the midfielder is enjoying the opportunity to learn something new.
“I’m still trying to get used to this position, having not really played it that much over the years, so I’m still learning,” Downes said.
“I want to get forward more, threaten more and add that to my game. I want to be in and around the box.
“I’ve always played deeper as a No.4 when I was younger so I’m probably more natural playing there but wherever the gaffer wants me to play, I’ll play.
“Because I’ve played as a No.4 before my positioning and things like that come off the cuff, so I’m still getting used to being at No.8.
“There are still times I’m out of position but I’m still trying, learning and getting better.
“Whatever he says I will go with.”
Reflecting on his season, which has so far included 29 appearances as Town were relegated from the Championship, Downes said: “I’ve played a lot of games but there have been ups and downs where I’ve not played so well and others where I’ve played well.
“I want to be more consistent with my performances and improve.
“It’s been a tough year for all of us.
“The Championship is a long old season so we could do with a rest.
“We know next season will be tough and we know what to expect because we have a few of the boys here now were playing there last season.
“They have told us what it’s like and hopefully we’ll be ready for it.”
Downes also praised the role of the Ipswich Town fans in giving the club’s young players a platform to play.
“If you look at where we are in the table, you can only imagine what other clubs’ fans would be like.
“We’re so grateful for that. They’re unbelievable and that’s all I can say.
“Knowing they are backing us and will be here next season is a big boost and it keeps the boys going. It keeps the atmosphere good.”
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