Town chairman David Sheepshanks has commented on his speech prior to Saturday's home clash with Reading which led to both boos and cheers from around Portman Road.

Sheepshanks says that he hadn't planned to talk to the increasingly hostile Town crowd: "It was a spur of the moment decision, but one I'm glad I made.

"I wanted to go out there and thank everyone personally for coming, particularly the 18,000 who have invested in season tickets.

"I also wanted to just say that the club is in much better shape and also to add that the reality of our financial situation is that tough decisions have had to be made as regards sales.

"I understand that I'm the butt of some people's frustrations, but difficult decisions have had to be taken.

"Now a new season has started and the club is in better shape. On the pitch I urged everyone to get behind Joe Royle and the team. I asked them to support the manager and his players to the hilt.

"We had the biggest crowd in the division by a long way. There was a magnificent response as the crowd gave the side great support against Reading.

"I'm chairman of this football club and I won't hide. I wanted to get out there on the pitch and make my points."

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