Boss Mick McCarthy was delighted to see so many fans at Portman Road for today’s Open Day. Around 4,700 supporters - a record Open Day attendance - were at the ground to watch the Blues train on the main pitch, get the players’ autographs and take part in other activities on the Fieldturf.

“It’s a great day, it’s a lovely day, the Open Day,” McCarthy said. “I’m glad we got good weather. I hope there aren’t too many with sunburn because it’s hot stood out there.

“It’s great to see so many young faces, all with the Ipswich shirt on. I think people like the new kit, and the new away strip. It’s lovely, it’s a great day for us.

“I think it’s lovely for the supporters to come in and see us train on a day and get a feel for it, and to connect with the players.”

Setting up the annual team photo

Setting up the club’s biggest ever team photo

Crowds begin to assemble on the Fieldturf

Town legends sign autographs

England legend Peter Shilton was also present on Sir Bobby Robson Day, here talking to Radio Suffolk’s Mark Murphy

Training on the main pitch

Paul Taylor and new boy Balint Bajner

Stephen Hunt, missing with a calf problem, signs a few autographs

Shooting practice

McCarthy and McGoldrick

Keeper-coach Malcolm Webster, Dean Gerken and Bartosz Bialkowski

A much-needed drinks break

A quick game to end

End of training

The signing session starts

And continues

And keeps going

Manager Mick McCarthy joins in with his players before speaking to the press

Photo: Action Images via Reuters