New signing Cole Skuse says he views Town as a sleeping giant whose rightful place is in the Premier League. Yesterday, the club confirmed that the 27-year-old had agreed a three-year deal which he will sign on July 1st when his Bristol City terms are up.
Skuse, who had also been linked with Crystal Palace, told the club site: "Once I had decided to leave Bristol, I was flattered with the interest from other clubs and had a few options to weigh up.
"Ipswich stuck out though. I see the club as a sleeping giant and they should be in the top flight really.
"I’ve played at Portman Road a few times and it’s a great stadium and the support the club receives from the fans is fantastic.
"I spoke to a few players who have played there before, lads like Hendo [Stephen Henderson], Bradley Orr and Steady [Jon Stead].
"They couldn’t speak highly enough of the manager, staff and club in general. They said it was a good club to join so that was a factor in my decision but I was already looking at Ipswich to be honest.
"When you see they have a manager of Mick McCarthy’s standing in the game, you know it’s a club that is showing ambition.
"Moving to Ipswich is the next challenge for me and I’m looking forward to it. I can’t wait to get started.”
Meanwhile, Town’s move to sign former loanee Jay Tabb on a permanent basis is reported to have hit a stumbling block with Middlesbrough and Birmingham also said to be showing interest.
The Blues made the offer of a two-year contract close to the end of the season with club and player both keen to get the deal done. The 29-year-old's Reading terms are up this summer.