Midfielder Jay Tabb says he never considered moving anywhere but Town after enjoying his two-month loan spell at Portman Road towards the end of the season. Earlier today, the Blues confirmed that the 29-year-old had agreed to sign the deal which was offered to him at the end of the season.
The released Reading man had been linked with Middlesbrough and Birmingham, but told the club site that there was only one option for him: "I really enjoyed my time at Ipswich when I was on loan and moving here permanently was always my first choice.
"In fact I never really considered signing for anyone else and now I’m delighted it all’s done and made official.
"There is a good feeling about the place with a top manager in charge in Mick McCarthy and I’m looking forward to going back for pre-season and taking on the next challenge for me.
"It’s a tough league to compete in, the Championship, but the manager has a proven track record and there is a lot of optimism around the club. I can’t wait to get going.”
Tabb has also sent a message of thanks to his old supporters: "I'd like to thank all of the fans, players and staff at Reading for a fantastic four and a half years.
"I'll always look back on my time at the club with fond memories and I've made some good friends along the way. Winning the league in 2011/12 has to be the highlight of my career.
"I'm already looking forward to playing at Madejski Stadium next season and I'm sure the club has a great chance of bouncing straight back up. Wishing you all a good summer and all of the best for the future."
Another former loanee, Daryl Murphy, looks set to be the next permanent addition to McCarthy’s squad. As TWTD reported on Saturday, the Irishman’s two-year deal is close to being confirmed.