Academy manager Sammy Morgan has paid tribute to part-time schoolboy coach Paul Cosson, who died yesterday after battling cancer. Cosson was with the Blues’ youth set-up for 11 years, in addition to his full-time job as an engineer.
Morgan said: "Paul was one of the longest serving part-time members of the academy. He first came to the attention of Ipswich Town when he was coaching Ipswich Wanderers U18s. He was recommended by Ken Goody [now the club’s assistant kit man] to join the academy schoolboy coaching team, which was then under the directorship of Bryan Klug.
"Paul was a most reliable and hardworking member of staff. He always had a warm relationship with his colleagues, young players and parents. His enthusiasm and dedication towards his work was second to none and he always had the best interests of the young players at heart.
"He continued to give distinguished service to the academy throughout his 11 years and made a considerable contribution to the development of numerous young players throughout his time at the club.
"Since his diagnosis Paul had shown tremendous courage and continued to attend regularly at the academy. It was only when the illness forced him to go into hospital did it prove impossible for him to get on to the playing field and coach his young players.
"I know he was extremely touched and grateful for the wonderful gestures of generosity which were shown by so many people through fundraising which enabled him to have further specialist treatment.
"He will indeed be sadly missed by everyone here at the academy and our thoughts are with his wife Julie and family at this very sad time."
There will be a minute's silence prior to schoolboy training at the academy this Thursday at 6pm.