Jonathan Douglas could be the answer to Ipswich Town’s goal drought, says McCarthy
Jonathan Douglas in action for Ipswich Town. Photo: Inphotography - Credit: Archant
Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy believes veteran midfielder Jonathan Douglas could be the answer to his team’s goal drought.
The Blues host surprise 10-game Championship table-toppers Huddersfield at Portman Road tomorrow having drawn a blank in their last three outings.
Altogether, Town have scored just eight goals this season and half of them came on the opening weekend in a 4-2 home win over Barnsley.
Douglas, 34, bagged three goals in his debut campaign at Portman Road while, over the course of his career, the ex-Leeds, Swindon and Brentford man has netted 37 times in more than 500 appearances.
“He’s had that happy knack of scoring if you look throughout his career,” said McCarthy. “He contributed last year and got eight for Brentford the year before. He’s been unlucky as well. He was offside the other night (when a goal was ruled out against Brighton), but the goal against Norwich he was onside and should have counted.
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“He gets in the box and is playing very well, Dougie. If he keeps going in there he’ll get his goals.”
Douglas has started the last eight games in succession for the Blues having been a regular in 2015/16.
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“He’s remarkable. I’ve been amazed. I thought he was excellent the other night,” said McCarthy, referring to Tuesday night’s goalless home draw with Brighton.
“He just puts himself in positions defensively, while he gets in the box consistently. I think a lot of that goes unnoticed.
“He’s an example to any young player watching with regards the levels of endurance and fitness he has. That durability is great.”
The Blues boss added: “He’s coming up for 35 but does everything that the other lads do in training and will get some time off in the international break, unless he’s called up by Ireland!
“He is one of the most uncomplicated, low maintenance, does-what-it-says-on-the-jar players that you’re ever likely to see.
“He’s an absolute pleasure to have working for you. You ask him to do something and he just goes out there and does it.”
