As the anticipation builds for tonight’s match between Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough, fans can reflect on some notable players who have donned the jerseys of both clubs. Here’s a look at five defenders who have made their mark at both Ipswich and Boro.
George Edmundson, a current Middlesbrough player, unfortunately, will miss the clash due to a hamstring injury suffered earlier this month. Nicknamed ‘The Fridge’, Edmundson moved to the Riverside Stadium initially on loan from Ipswich last summer, later making the move permanent in January 2023. During his time at Ipswich, he became a vital part of the squad, making 75 appearances and playing a key role in the club’s back-to-back promotions from League One to the Premier League after signing from Rangers for £750,000 in 2021.
Tony Mowbray stands out as an iconic figure for both clubs. He progressed through the youth ranks at Middlesbrough, eventually becoming club captain and racking up over 300 appearances. Mowbray made a £1 million switch to Celtic in 1991 before joining Ipswich in 1995, where he was instrumental in helping the Blues gain promotion to the top flight through the play-off final at Wembley. Notably, he scored in the final match of his playing career, which ended in a memorable 4-2 victory over Barnsley. Mowbray remained connected to Ipswich, later serving as a coach and caretaker manager.
Kevin Beattie, who many consider Ipswich’s greatest player, joined the club as an apprentice in 1970 and made over 300 appearances, scoring 32 goals. He enjoyed significant success, winning an FA Cup and a UEFA Cup winners’ medal. After leaving Ipswich in 1982 for Colchester United, Beattie concluded his professional career with a brief stint at Middlesbrough, where he made five appearances and netted one goal.
Phil Whelan, another defender who rose through Ipswich’s youth system, made a memorable debut during the 1991/92 season and played a role in the team’s promotion to the newly established Premier League. Whelan played 92 games for Town before moving to Boro for £300,000 in 1995, where he had a less prolific spell with just 28 league appearances.
Lastly, Mick McNeil, a local talent from Middlesbrough, made nearly 200 appearances for his hometown club and earned caps for the England national team. After being signed by Ipswich in 1964 for £17,000, he served as club captain and contributed to winning the Second Division title in the 1967/68 season, appearing in 173 matches and scoring five goals for Town until his retirement in 1972.
These players not only represent the history between Ipswich Town and Middlesbrough but also highlight the depth of talent that has flourished within both clubs over the years, adding to the excitement of tonight’s match.