Town new boy Jack Collison has admitted his release by West Ham was hard to take — even if he felt it was on the cards.

Welsh international Collison was released by the Hammers at the end of last season and was without a club until last week when he agreed a short-term deal at Portman Road through to late December.

He had spent part of pre-season with Premier League newcomers QPR, playing in a couple of friendly games, and also spent a short time at Birmingham before accepting Mick McCartney’s offer.

He said: “Leaving West Ham was obviously a bit of a shock to the system because I’d been there since I was 16. But I think it was coming, to be fair. I hadn’t been in the team much, so it was expected.

“But these things happen in football and you have to move on. This is a new chapter in my life, a fresh challenge and one I’m really looking forward to.”

Collison’s affection for the Hammers was underlined when he wrote a lengthy open letter to supporters that appeared on the club website and reflected on his nine years on the Upton Park payroll.

He added: “I spent pretty much half of my life at West Ham and I had my fair share of ups and downs, probably more than most.

“I experienced it all during my time at the club and with the fans. I always felt a special bond with them and I’m very thankful for everything they’ve done for me. But it’s football, it moves on and this is a new start that I am relishing.

“I’m delighted to be at Ipswich. It has been a slightly frustrating time for me but I am very thankful to the manager for giving me the opportunity here. Now I want to pay him back by getting myself fit, start playing well and doing the business on the pitch.

“Being without a club is a tough time for any footballer but I believe in my ability and I know that if I can get myself fit I can do a job here. The ball’s in my court now and it’s up to me to start knocking on the door and asking questions.

“Obviously, it’s going to be no easy task because the boys have been fantastic recently but it’s a challenge I’m looking forward to.”

Photo: Action Images

sitocastro added 11:23 - Sep 30 Good luck Jack. Now win yourself a new deal!
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JW_ITFC added 12:22 - Sep 30 Seems a cracking person and hopefully has the ability to match the attitude. He may be lucky to get in the side now though with Hyam, Skuse, Bru, Ambrose, Bishop and, of course, Williams all worthy challengers to his starting spot! Ps. Didn't know Mick McCartney offered him a deal. Maybe to start up a Beatles' brothers tribute band?
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blueboy1981 added 17:50 - Sep 30 It happened - move on, as you now need to.
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