Mick McCarthy: 'Norwich City are favourites for playoff clash'

Ipswich Town manager Mick McCarthy has said that he is relishing the opportunity to take on fierce rivals Norwich City in the Championship playoffs.

The Tractor Boys will head into the two-legged clash as the underdogs, having finished eight points behind the third-placed Canaries in sixth and lost both of their league meetings this season.

McCarthy insists that, while he has been impressed with the work that Alex Neil has done with the Canaries, they will hold no fear for his side.

"They have been outstanding since he came in and they beat us [at Carrow Road] 2-0, but we didn't really play against them," McCarthy told talkSPORT.

"I would have thought most people, innocent observers who have no vested interest in the game, will be thinking it is going to be Norwich [who win] so happy days [for us].

"Norwich have got a terrific squad. We have got a squad that has been put together for next to nothing. We have got a great squad of lads. They are a real joy to work with, they all fancy it, they all want it, and every week they give everything."

The first leg takes place at Portman Road on Saturday.