Town manager Joe Royle has paid tribute to Jamie Clapham as the versatile player travels to talks terms with Birmingham City. Royle says that he did not appreciate Clapham's full abilities until taking over at Portman Road.

The Town boss feels that the deal is the right one for Town at present: "Bearing in mind our financial situation the deal is right for Ipswich Town. Jamie will be talking with Birmingham manager Steve Bruce today and if they agree terms the deal will go through.

"Jamie has been outstanding since I arrived. I knew he was a good player, but did not realise how good until I saw him at first hand. He will be missed."

Unusually Town have announced the fee agreed with the Midlanders. Steve Bruce's club will pay £1 million plus bonuses should Clapham agree personal terms. The bonuses referred to are likely to be the amount outstanding from the player's signing-on fee.

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