Ipswich aim younger

Monday, 09/01/2012

by Sam Broadley, Shoot's Ipswich blogger

Ipswich Town manager Paul Jewell has admitted that his policy of bringing in “quick-fix” veterans has backfired and was an error in judgement.

The 47-year-old stated that his initial target when joining the club a year ago was to set strong foundations upon which he would build a squad capable of becoming a force over the coming years.

As he prepared for this season, though, Jewell changed his policy to that of an attempt to gain quick-time promotion by bringing in several “been there, done that” ex-Premier League stars coming to the end of their careers.

There had been excitement among the Town faithful in the summer when big names including Lee Bowyer and Jimmy Bullard joined the club, players who had boasted much successful top-flight experience.

However, the increasing signings of those the wrong side of 30 has left the team with a distinct lack of pace and dynamism. It was a gamble that has far from paid off with the Blues languishing precariously above the relegation zone – and showing few signs of climbing.

To Jewell’s credit, he has acknowledged this as a mistake and has set about making plans to bring a younger look to the side, which could include two new signings this week. Only one has been named – Sean St Ledger from Leicester. The central defender is attracting interest from several clubs, including in Italy, but Jewell remains hopeful a deal can be done to bring him to Portman Road – especially considering the floods of goals Town are leaking.

Town are also still looking to sign midfielder Keith Andrews on a permanent basis after his successful loan spell this season. Arguably Ipswich’s best player so far this campaign, the 31-year-old is being tempted by a number of clubs – including his struggling parent club Blackburn Rovers, but he has stated he wishes to get away. The playmaker will want to secure regular first-team football in order to cement his place in the Republic of Ireland squad for the forthcoming Euro 2012 Finals in June.

• 

• Have your say