Portman Road’s South Stand will be officially rechristened the Sir Alf Ramsey Stand prior to tomorrow’s home game against Barnsley. The six members of Ramsey’s 1961/62 First Division championship-winning side who are the club’s special guests at the match — Andy Nelson, Larry Carberry, John Compton, Doug Moran, Ray Crawford and Ted Phillips - will be given the honour of renaming the stand when they take to the pitch 20 minutes before kick-off.
Chief executive Simon Clegg said: "I'm delighted to confirm that with the full agreement and support of Lady Ramsey, the club has decided to invite the team from 1961/62 to rename the South Stand in honour of Sir Alf.
"The Supporters Club have asked me many times to consider honouring Sir Alf in this way and with the 50th anniversary of the League championship win now upon us, it seemed the right time to do that."
Manager Paul Jewell believes it’s important for Town to remember its greatest days in this manner: "It was a fantastic achievement, brilliant. We want to embrace the history of the football club and make some ourselves.
"It would be lovely in years to come if there was something like that [in honour of the current team] because it would mean we’re successful.
"That’s why Sir Alf and Sir Bobby, the 61/62 team, the 78 team and the 81 team are loved by the supporters. It’s important that we pay huge respect to what’s gone on in the past.”
The players, who will also lay wreaths Sir Alf's graveside and at the foot of his statue tomorrow morning, were told of the renaming at this evening’s ex-players’ dinner which is being held at Portman Road.
A number of former players will be in Legends bar after the game meeting fans and signing autographs.