Town's shirts will bear the legend E.ON next season after the power company which owns Powergen extended their sponsorship for the next two years. The German-owned company is planning to drop the Powergen brand.

Town chief executive Derek Bowden is pleased with the deal: “We're delighted to have the continued support of E.ON for the next two seasons, especially as they will become the lead partner of the FA Cup from 1st August — increasing their commitment to football.

“Following the rescheduling of our debt earlier in the year and the signing of all key players on longer term contracts, we're in a strong position for the season ahead. E.ON's commitment to the club demonstrates their belief in our ability to challenge for promotion next season and in particular, their financial support, in no small way, has enabled us to keep a promotion challenging squad together.”

Mike Thompson, E.ON's head of sponsorship added: “Our sponsorship of ITFC has been very successful in raising awareness of the Powergen brand. By extending this relationship with the club we now have the opportunity to promote E.ON, the company that runs Powergen, to the club's fans, our customers and the wider community.

“To celebrate the renewal of our sponsorship we will be offering the first 2006 fans a discount on the newly branded home shirt, which will carry the E.ON logo for the 2006/07 season. Further details regarding the offer will be released shortly.”

Town sales and marketing director Andrew Goulborn said: “The two-year renewal is excellent news for the club and will provide an added boost as we continue to improve our finances and strengthen the playing squad, which will ultimately put us in the best possible position to secure promotion.”

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