Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna says it was 'very important' for the Blues to sign veteran defender Conor Townsend.

The 31-year-old arrived from West Brom for £500,000 last week, signing a two-year deal at Portman Road before making his debut in the friendly win over Hoffenheim on Saturday.

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While the addition of a back-up left back may not set pulses racing as Town prepare for the mega-money challenge of the Premier League, McKenna insisted it was a role which needs to be filled. 

Kieran McKenna says Townsend fills a much-needed role in the squadKieran McKenna says Townsend fills a much-needed role in the squad (Image: Ross Halls)
“Yeah, it was very important," he said of Townsend's capture.  

"We did lack cover in terms of a left-footer who’s a natural left back, or left wingback, in that role last season.

“Leif (Davis) managed to stay fit pretty much all season and other boys stepped in, in the few moments that he did miss.

READ MORE: McKenna reveals a key focus for Town this season

“We need strong competition and options in every position this season.

"We need at least two strong players for every position, there’s no other way about it, it’s going to be a big increase in the physical challenge."

Townsend, who played 25 games for the Baggies in the Premier League in the 2020/21 campaign, adds experience to a squad light on top tier action.

Just ten of the current squad have played in the Premier League, topped by defender Ben Johnson's 69 games for West Ham.

Conor Townsend adds Premier League experience to the Town squadConor Townsend adds Premier League experience to the Town squad (Image: Ross Halls)
And McKenna added: “We’re really happy to get Conor in.

"An experienced player, a good professional, good player with good qualities for the team and the role in the team.

“And someone we think will settle in really well and be an important part of the group.”