MICK GETS A CASH BOOST
MICK McCarthy has hauled Ipswich into promotion contention on a shoestring budget – and chairman Marcus Evans has hinted he’s ready to see what his miracle worker can do with a fistful of pounds.
McCarthy, 56, is seeking his third promotion to the Premier League after guiding Sunderland and Wolves back to the big time, but to do so with the Tractor Boys would arguably be his biggest achievement yet.
While the £10,000 purchase of left-back Tyrone Mings from Chippenham Town may not be his biggest outlay any more – Freddie Sears was signed for an undisclosed fee in January – McCarthy does not exactly command a war chest at Portman Road.
But Evans insists he can match his manager’s ambition with funds to ensure Ipswich’s dalliance with promotion this season is no flash in the pan.
Miraculous
“The fact that we are within sight of the finishing line to reach the play-offs is nothing short of miraculous and a testament to the ability of Mick and (assistant manager) Terry Connor,” said Evans.
“My main priority over this summer, and in future years, is to support Mick by ensuring we keep our best players through being able to offer competitive terms, as well as the players being aware that they are part of a team with the realistic potential to move onwards and upwards in whatever league we find ourselves.
“In addition, I will continue to ensure funds are available to offer similarly competitive terms for new players we bring into the club.
“If we add to this a vibrant academy with players progressing into the first-team, we will have, I believe, a recipe for greater success.
“We will continue to be highly competitive in terms of wages and will strive to match up to market conditions.”