x

Keane: Smith Will Be Pushing for First Team Place - Ipswich Town News

Boss Roy Keane expects Tommy Smith to push for a place in the first team this season after his exploits with New Zealand at the World Cup. The central defender has been given an extra three weeks off to recover from the All Whites’ unbeaten campaign in South Africa.

Keane said: "I thought he did reasonably well, the experience will do him the world of good.

"For Tommy to go to the World Cup and have a decent campaign, he’ll be a much better player for it.

"I’m looking forward to Tommy coming back in two or three weeks and, having played in the World Cup, he’ll be fighting to get into our starting XI in the Championship. Competition can only be good for our club.”

Smith played in all New Zealand's games, helping them to three draws which saw them narrowly miss out on qualification for the knockout stages but still finish ahead of Italy in their group. The 20-year-old is due back at Portman Road on July 16th.

What to read next:

Morsy: The Best Spell of My Career and Life
Departing Town captain Sam Morsy has issued a message to fans, teammates, manager Kieran McKenna and his staff following confirmation of his move to Kuwait SC, while the squad and ex-players have paid their own tributes to the Egyptian international.
Town Confirm Morsy Exit For Kuwait SC
Town skipper Sam Morsy’s move to Kuwait SC has been confirmed.
Town Announce Matchday Ticket Prices
Town have confirmed their matchday ticket prices for the Championship season ahead.
Luongo Close to Joining Millwall
Former Blues midfielder Massimo Luongo is closing in on joining Millwall following his trial with the Lions.
Eze Nets Twice as U19s Draw Opener at Czech Tournament
Striker Nelson Eze scored twice as an U19 Town side drew 2-2 with hosts Banik Ostrava in their opening match at the Zlaty Kahan tournament in Czechia yesterday.
Young: Working With McKenna Again Was a Massive Pull
New Blues signing Ashley Young says manager Kieran McKenna played a big part in his decision to join Town having left Everton at the end of last season.
Town Confirm Young Signing
Town have confirmed the signing of veteran former England international Ashley Young on a one-year deal.
[Podcast] Blue Monday - New Podcast Now Online
A new podcast from the Blue Monday team is now available.
Released Forward Roberts Joins Stevenage
Released Blues U21s forward Matty Roberts has joined League One Stevenage following a trial.
Young Close to Completing Town Move
Veteran former England international Ashley Young is close to completing a move to the Blues on a one-year deal.