McLoughlin and Academy Duo Released - Ipswich Town News

Town will release Republic of Ireland U21 international keeper Ian McLoughlin and academy second-year scholars Rory McKeown and Josh Meekings at the end of the season.

McLoughlin, who has been on the bench for the first team without making an appearance, is currently on loan at Stockport County in League Two. The 19-year-old joined Town from Dublin club St Francis is January 2009.

Defenders Meekings and McKeown, a Northern Ireland U19 international, have played for the reserves this season in addition to being regulars for the U18s.

Boss Paul Jewell says letting youngsters go is the hardest thing he has to do: "It's the worst part of a manager's job, telling young players that we will not be keeping them on.

"But the challenge for those boys now is to go on and have a career in the game elsewhere. We will do everything we can to help them achieve that, and wish them all the best for the future."

What to read next:

Australian Huni Wardley's New Opponent
Australian Justis Huni has been named as Fabio Wardley’s new opponent for his June 7th interim WBA World Heavyweight title fight at Portman Road.

Moyes: McKenna's a Great Young Manager Doing a Fantastic Job at a Real Football Club
Everton boss David Moyes says his Blues counterpart Kieran McKenna has done a great job at “a real football club”, despite Town’s relegation back to the Championship following one season back in the top flight.

Taylor: The Plan is to Be a Regular Starter Next Season
Town midfielder Jack Taylor has had to stay patient for his opportunities this season but admits he would like to become a regular starter as the Blues prepare for a return to the Championship.

U18s at Coventry
Town’s U18s take on Coventry City at the Sky Blues’ academy on Saturday afternoon in their final Professional Development League Two South match of the season.

Sheeran to Play Three Portman Road Gigs
Town sponsor and minority shareholder Ed Sheeran will play three live shows at Portman Road this summer.

Barbrook Wins Two Awards at Sutton
Blues youngster Finley Barbrook has been named both the Players’ Player and Young Player of the Year at his loan club Sutton United.

Taylor: We're Not Happy With the Number of Red Cards
Town midfielder Jack Taylor says the Blues have spoken about discipline following their fifth red card of the season against Newcastle United last weekend.

[Podcast] Blue Monday - New Podcast Now Online
A new podcast from the Blue Monday team is now available.

McKenna: Everton Will Want a Party Atmosphere
Boss Kieran McKenna says motivating his players isn’t a problem despite the Blues’ relegation having been confirmed with the squad desperate to play in Premier League games such as Saturday’s visit to Goodison Park, Everton’s penultimate fixture at the ground that has been their home since 1892.

Palmer Nominated For Premier League Save of the Month
Blues keeper Alex Palmer has been nominated for the Premier League Save of the Month award for April for his brilliant late stop during the 2-2 draw at Chelsea.