Town chairman David Sheepshanks has urged supporters to enjoy European football while it is still here ahead of Thursday night's UEFA Cup tie against Sartid. Sheepshanks was at Portman Road on Wednesday night for the traditional day-before-tie meal with Town's European opponents' directors at the Galleria.

Sheepshanks told TWTD: “I think European football is a real treat. However, we have said many times that the league is the most important thing, and it certainly is.

“The fact is we're in Europe, and really proud to be in Europe, and I think we should all revel in these nights. Who knows when we'll next get another chance to play in Europe?

An extended run would help the club financially, although Sheepshanks says there is less money in a UEFA Cup run than there was last season: “It would be great if we could have a bit of a run and get through another round or two as the financial gains, even though they are less than they were last year are still important.

“The reason I say they are less is that there is less interest from the television companies in live broadcasts. The gate receipts and the commercial revenue we can earn out of being in Europe are still very, very valuable in the context of the economics that we have to work in while in the First Division.”

The chairman is aware of the concerns fans have regarding the pile-up of fixtures caused by the European run, but feels Europe is there to be enjoyed: “Of course, fans are nervous about the numbers of games we're playing in, but everybody is clear on what we need to do in the Football League. But we're here and it's a real treat to be in Europe and let's enjoy it. And every penny is vital.”

Pennies may still be vital, however, Sheepshanks says that the various financial manoeuvrings over the last few weeks see the club in a more secure position and the focus should move to the on-field action: “As a result of the actions we have taken over the last few weeks the situation is now under control. It's very much stabilised and the most important thing to do now is concentrate on what we do on the pitch.”

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