New signing Ben Thatcher says Jim Magilton's plans for the future were what persuaded him to join the Blues. The former Wales international signed a two-year deal with Town earlier today.

Thatcher told the club site: "I did speak to a few clubs but I was impressed with what Jim Magilton had to say here and his plans for the future.

"I spent a week in Belfast with the team and got on well with the lads, and it's clear to see that the manager has got a strong squad here.

"I'm 32 now and I'd like to get back in the Premier League and if that is going to happen, I've probably got to do it in the next year or two.

"Moving to Ipswich, with a new owner and an ambitious manager, gives me a chance to do that and hopefully I can be part of a successful season here."

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