Richard Woodward, a fan writer, recently witnessed Ipswich Town's latest single goal defeat in the Premier League. While the result was cruel and depressing, one highlight emerged - the contribution of Town players who honed their skills in the Football League.

Premier League Success through the Football League Path

Conor Chaplin: From League Two to the Premier League

Chaplin's journey is a remarkable one. Back in 2014-15, he broke through at League Two level with Portsmouth during a time when the club was reeling from a rapid drop down the divisions. Since then, he has made over 100 appearances at League One and Two levels on the south coast. A brief spell at Coventry (then in League One) and Barnsley in the Championship followed. It was a drop back down to the third tier with Ipswich that led to Chaplin taking his bow at Premier League level, thanks to the club's back-to-back promotions. Now, he is one of only a few players to have scored goals in each of the top four tiers of the English football pyramid. With 94 league goals in 341 EFL appearances, Chaplin is finally getting the chance to showcase his ability on the biggest stage.

His ability to find the back of the net in different leagues showcases his versatility and determination. From the lower leagues to the Premier League, Chaplin has proven that hard work and perseverance pay off.

Cam Burgess: A Circuitous Journey to the Top

Cam Burgess's career path to the top level was much more circuitous. Starting out in the Championship with Fulham in 2014-15 and making his first league appearance against Ipswich, a combination of loans and transfers eventually saw him ply his trade at League Two Salford in 2019-20. Fast forward five seasons at Accrington and then at Ipswich, Burgess is now lining up and impressing in the top flight. Against Bournemouth on Sunday, he provided an assist for penalty box menace Conor Chaplin to open the scoring, earning him Ipswich's player of the match award.

Burgess's journey shows that it's never too late to achieve one's dreams. After facing various challenges and setbacks along the way, he has finally reached the Premier League and is making his mark.

Kieran McKenna's Summer Recruits and the Long Way Round

While much is expected of Kieran McKenna's summer recruits, it is great to see opportunities being given to players like Chaplin and Burgess who have earned their Premier League minutes by going the 'long way round'. These players have a unique perspective and bring a different level of experience to the team. Their stories inspire others and show that with determination and hard work, anyone can make it to the top.

Their success is a testament to the fact that talent can be found in unexpected places. By giving these players a chance, Ipswich Town is not only strengthening their team but also inspiring a new generation of players.