Captain Morsy, who turns 33 this week, has been a driving force behind back-to-back promotions and is now playing in the Premier League for the first time in his career.

Phillips, meanwhile, is looking to reignite his top-flight career after a frustrating couple of years. The 31-cap England international, who is on a season-long loan from Man City, made his full league debut for the Blues in last weekend’s 1-1 home draw with Fulham.

“I thought it was a good week for him in terms of progress,” said McKenna, when asked about Phillips. “He’s had some minutes in the cup in midweek (against AFC Wimbledon) and got almost 70 minutes against Fulham.

Kalvin Phillips made his Ipswich Town league debut in the 1-1 home draw against Fulham. (Image: Ross Halls)

“He’s fitted really well into the team, fitted really well into the group and we’re enjoying having him here. I thought we were really competitive in the middle of the pitch. Him and Samy at least held their own in that battle.

“I’m sure he’ll continue to get stronger as the weeks go by. Physically he’ll build up his fitness, he’ll understand his team-mates and how we play more and we’ll learn more how to utilise him best. He’s an important part of our squad.”

On Morsy, the Blues boss said: “I think he’s improved in his performances even from the Liverpool game. He’s showing growth and that’s Samy. I won’t mention his age, but he’s not at the start of his career. Yet he always wants to improve and he sets that tone for the rest of the group.

“He’s always looking for the small margins to get better, to review and reflect on his performances. I know how hungry he is to have an impact at Premier League level. I think he’s had a good start and I’m also confident that he’ll be a better player in a couple of months because of the mindset that he has.”

Ipswich Town skipper Sam Morsy is playing in the Premier League for the first time in his career. (Image: Ross Halls)