18 chances made – Ipswich’s creative force is playing them into Championship contention

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Paul Anderson has been as crucial as anyone to Ipswich’s recent progress.

This weekend’s 2-0 win over Rotherham United means Mick McCarthy’s Ipswich Town side have registered four wins on the bounce.

The impressive form has seen the Tractor Boys surge into fifth in the Championship (fourth before Wolves’ 3-3 draw at Reading), just three points off league-leaders Norwich City.

And one man has been particularly key to their progress.

Yes, there have been many Mick McCarthy has relied on, including David McGoldrick, Daryl Murphy and more. But, statistically, Paul Anderson has impressed the most so far this season in terms of his creativity.

Indeed, as Opta stats show, Anderson has created 18 chances so far this campaign, more than any other Ipswich player. He has, similarly, registered more assists than anyone else and made more accurate crosses than his team-mates.

Jay tabb is hot on his heels but has only won one dribble and is yet to get an assist.

Moreover, Anderson, who was replaced by Tabb on Saturday, created four chances in just 55 minutes against Rotherham.

Boss McCarthy told reporters after the game: “[David] McGoldrick is arguably one of the best strikers in the league. He has two good feet, just one better than the other and it [his goal] was some strike.”

But, without Anderson, Ipswich would not be as effective in the final third by far. Credit to McCarthy for developing a side full of attacking creativity – and credit to Anderson for making so many chances.