Just over 2,000 fans turned up to Town’s third annual open training day at a sweltering Portman Road this lunchtime.

After the traditional photocall, the squad and staff signed autographs before they took part in a training session. Outside on the practice pitch the club laid on plenty of stalls and activities.

Manager Mick McCarthy was fully behind the event: “It’s great for them to come, they’re all on holiday and they’re going to need a bit of after sun one or two of them, it’s been a beautiful day and I think they’re all enjoying it.

“It’s always nice for them to bring along our photographs and get our signatures. I’ve seen some dodgy photos of me from a long time ago, I have to be honest. That’s not very flattering!”

McCarthy spoke to the media prior to putting his squad — which included new signing Jordan Adekunle, trialist Luke Dobie and former Blue Alan Lee, who is currently training with the first team squad while coaching in the academy - through their paces.

He says fans would get a better idea of what goes on on a daily basis at Playford Road.

“It’ll give them a bit more of an insight into what we’re doing,” McCarthy said. “They might be surprised at how long we train or how intense it is, or maybe how short we train. But they get to watch us, which is a good thing.”

Blues legend Ted Phillips watched on from the directors’ box, a day before his 80th birthday, while John Wark also popped along and signed a few autographs.

Players and staff hold a lengthy signing session with fans

New signing Jordan Adekunle

Mick McCarthy speaks to the media

Mick and Mark Kennedy prepare for the training session

Spot of head tennis

Light run to get things going

Under instruction

Legend Ted Phillips watches from the directors’ box

Photo: Action Images via Reuters