Chief executive Derek Bowden has commented on fan concerns at the pricing of Friday's FA Youth Cup final second leg at Portman Road. The Blues are charging adults £8 admission, whereas Southampton asked only £5 for entry into Monday's first leg at the St Mary's Stadium.

Bowden said: "Obviously the final is a big match, the FA Cup final at academy level, and is treated as a major domestic trophy.

"Friday's game is the decisive of the two legs and, with the scores locked at 2-2, it should be a cracking match."

"We have followed our pricing levels as the competition has developed, with the semi-final against Tottenham charged at £6 for adults, £4 concessions and £1 kids.

"Supporters actually paid £7 to watch our game away at Colchester and that was only a quarter-final tie. It's also worth remembering that we are a Championship club and not Premiership, which Tottenham and Southampton are.

"Friday's game provides a good opportunity to bring important revenue into the club with all proceeds from the game going to the academy, an academy that has provided Joe Royle with a number of his first team players this season.

"We believe that £10 for an adult and two children to watch one of the major domestic trophies settled at Portman Road on Friday works out at good value for money and, hopefully, there will be a big support behind Bryan Klug and the boys on the night."

Tickets for the game available now from the club shops for personal callers and via the Ticket Office on 01473 400555.

The club are advising fans to arrive at the ground early with more than 10,000 expected. Both the Cobbold and Britannia Stands will be in use with gates opening at 6.30pm.

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