Winless but still far from hopeless Assessing the Premier League's bottom four

Struggling quartet have not tasted victory seven matches in but have reasons to cling to optimism for the rest of the season

- Nick Ames, Ed Aarons and Ben Fisher

Why have they struggled?

Ipswich are not carrying themselves like strugglers. They were dealt the toughest of starts after 22 years out of the top flight, facing Liverpool and Manchester City, so an element of catchup was inevitable. But a few jitters may set in if they do not emerge from their next three games, all winnable, with a first victory. Kieran McKenna reinforced his squad heavily in the summer and, while the core that won promotion remain, there has been an inevitable settling in process. Liam Delap has hit the ground running after moving from City but their fate may hang on how quickly his fellow recruits find their rhythm.

What signs of hope are there?

Until an error-strewn defeat at West Ham last time out, Ipswich could take positives from every game. They defended stoutly to hold off Brighton and then, when Aston Villa visited a typically atmospheric Portman Road, showed a more familiar side in a 2-2 draw they should have won. They do not look out of place and, with a few better decisions in attacking areas, would be significantly better off. Kalvin Phillips has started well after his surprise loan move and Delap, Jacob Greaves and Omari Hutchinson are three of the best young English players around; all three should only improve as the season continues.

How safe is the manager?

McKenna's job is among the safest in the Premier League. Ipswich breathed a huge sigh of relief when he signed a lucrative new deal in May despite overtures from several top-flight rivals. He has barely put a foot wrong since arriving in December 2021 and will be forgiven a few bumps in the road this season. He has shown that, when required, his team can display a more pragmatic approach than the swashbuckling style that took them up the divisions.

Crystal Palace Pts 3 GD -5