Boss Mick McCarthy was delighted to see so many fans at Portman Road for today’s Open Day. Around 4,700 supporters - a record Open Day attendance - were at the ground to watch the Blues train on the main pitch, get the players’ autographs and take part in other activities on the Fieldturf.
"It’s a great day, it’s a lovely day, the Open Day,” McCarthy said. "I’m glad we got good weather. I hope there aren’t too many with sunburn because it’s hot stood out there.
"It’s great to see so many young faces, all with the Ipswich shirt on. I think people like the new kit, and the new away strip. It’s lovely, it’s a great day for us.
"I think it’s lovely for the supporters to come in and see us train on a day and get a feel for it, and to connect with the players.”
Setting up the annual team photo
Setting up the club’s biggest ever team photo
Crowds begin to assemble on the Fieldturf
Town legends sign autographs
England legend Peter Shilton was also present on Sir Bobby Robson Day, here talking to Radio Suffolk’s Mark Murphy
Training on the main pitch
Paul Taylor and new boy Balint Bajner
Stephen Hunt, missing with a calf problem, signs a few autographs
Shooting practice
McCarthy and McGoldrick
Keeper-coach Malcolm Webster, Dean Gerken and Bartosz Bialkowski
A much-needed drinks break
A quick game to end
End of training
The signing session starts
And continues
And keeps going
Manager Mick McCarthy joins in with his players before speaking to the press