Gary O’Neil explains why Ipswich Town targeted Ligue 1 for summer transfers

Ipswich Town manager Gary O'Neil believes the physical demands of Ligue 1 have helped Emersonn and Abdoul Ouattara adapt to Premier League football following their summer moves from France.

Emersonn joined from Toulouse for an initial club-record £24million, while Ouattara arrived from Strasbourg for an initial £17m.

Speaking in an interview reported by TWTD on 16 October, O'Neil explained why he was confident both players could cope with the intensity of English top-flight football.

O'Neil believes French football offers a useful preparation for the Premier League because of its pace and physical demands, even though he considers the overall standard of quality to be different.

"There are some really good athletes in that league and every game feels close to a Premier League game," he said.

The Ipswich boss explained that his main concerns were whether Emersonn could cope with experienced Premier League centre-backs and how Ouattara would adjust to facing established top-flight wingers.

Having managed Strasbourg last season, O'Neil was already familiar with Ouattara's qualities and had identified Emersonn while preparing for a match against Toulouse.

Emersonn, 22, had scored twice in six Premier League starts when O'Neil gave his assessment.

The Brazilian striker has established himself ahead of Zian Flemming and Chuba Akpom, although O'Neil admitted his progress had been quicker than anticipated.

"He's probably done better than we expected, to be honest," the manager said.

O'Neil also stressed that Emersonn still had areas to improve, with competition from Flemming and Akpom helping to maintain standards.

Ouattara, 20, has impressed at right-back since making his first Premier League start against Everton.

The Ivory Coast international also scored a late equaliser in Ipswich's 2-1 victory over Fulham at Portman Road on 10 October.

O'Neil was already confident in Ouattara's ability from their time together at Strasbourg, but highlighted the player's versatility as another important asset.

He explained that Ouattara could cover several positions, including both full-back roles and midfield, giving Ipswich additional flexibility.

"He's a talented lad and he's going to have a big career, I'm sure," O'Neil said.

However, the manager cautioned against judging either player's Premier League adaptation after such a short period.

O'Neil has made clear that Emersonn faces competition from Flemming and Akpom for his starting position.

Ouattara's performances at right-back have strengthened his case for regular selection, although O'Neil believes the adjustment to Premier League football remains an ongoing process for both players.