Goalkeeping-coach Jimmy Walker's move from Sunderland to the Blues, which TWTD revealed earlier this morning, has been confirmed by the two clubs.
Walker, who is based in Stamford, Lincolnshire, says he's making the switch in order to be closer to his family.
"It was a very difficult decision for me, as I have loved every minute at Sunderland and it’s a fantastic club,” he told the Black Cats official site.
"Being away from my family in recent months has been challenging so I would like to thank everyone at the club, especially the manager and staff, for their understanding. I wish the club and the fans every success for the rest of the season.”
Sunderland boss Jack Ross added: "We are sad to see Jimmy go but understand his reasons. He leaves with our very best wishes for the future.”
We can confirm that Jimmy Walker is Town's new first-team goalkeeping coach as he joins from @SunderlandAFC to become part of Paul Lambert's backroom staff.
Welcome to #itfc, Jimmy! 👇– Ipswich Town FC (@Official_ITFC) November 6, 2018
The 45-year-old began his coaching career with Peterborough in 2013 before moving on to Gillingham and then Lincoln during their 2016/17 Vanarama National League championship campaign, in which they beat the Blues in the FA Cup, before joining Ross's Stadium of Light coaching staff in the summer.
Walker is understood to be starting work with the Blues today, having played under manager Paul Lambert during a spell on loan at Colchester in 2008/09.
Firstly thanku everyone for the amazing messages...been a whirlwind last few days I will try nd get back to everyone that took their time to send me well wishes nd some not so well wishes.. Thanku all means a lot to me 🤗ðŸ‘
— Jimmy Walker (@jimmywalker001) November 6, 2018
2nd this was one of the toughest decisions I’ve ever had to make @SunderlandAFC What an fantastic few months...amazing football club with proper people...I honestly loved every minute 🙌👌 I’ve no doubt yous will get the success u deserve ðŸ™â¤ï¸ #Hawaythelads
— Jimmy Walker (@jimmywalker001) November 6, 2018
3rd.. To be close to my boys and a chance to join another great football club @Official_ITFC was an opportunity I cudnt miss.. A massive challenge ahead but one I’m really looking forward too ðŸ‘🙌
— Jimmy Walker (@jimmywalker001) November 6, 2018
In addition to his stint with the U's, the Sutton-in-Ashfield-born keeper was with Notts County, Walsall (twice), West Ham, Tottenham, Posh and the Imps during his playing career.
Long-serving Town keeper-coach Malcolm Webster retired at the end of last season with head of academy goalkeeping Darren Smith, who had spent time working with the first team under Webster, given the role on what was effectively a trial basis by former boss Paul Hurst.