David Sheepshanks says he and George Burley forged new contacts in the Far East while they spent time at the World Cup in Japan. The Town bosses were present at four games, including the hosts' win against Russia and England's victory over Argentina.

Sheepshanks said: "We now have good links and contacts out there and you never know what might develop from it. Japan is growing all the time as a football nation and the World Cup will enhance it further."

The aim of the trip was to make new contacts rather than to scout players with most in the squads out of Town's Nationwide League price-range. However, players from the less-established nations could be viable targets.

Sheepshanks was also interested in the off-field side of things: "It was a valuable exercise in learning more about customer care and also from a point of view of establishing new football contacts.

"Now I look forward to watching the rest of this wonderful tournament on television and I hope that England can continue to excite us all."

Burley and Sheepshanks met up with former striker Paul Mariner who is involved in media work during the tournament. Mariner, who coaches young players in Arizona, spent a fair amount of time with Sheepshanks and former team-mate Burley.

Previously Mariner has brought his teams to the UK and played Academy sides, with his players hoping to impress English clubs. Two years ago he told TWTD that he would be interested in bringing his side to Portman Road.

Town's Academy director Bryan Klug is on his way out to Japan where he will coach at a Tokyo University. Klug will be a guest of the Japanese FA.

Photo: Action Images

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