Former Town players Kieron Dyer and Titus Bramble have donated money to the academy which will allow the U14s to attend a prestigious youth tournament. Last month academy director Bryan Klug revealed that due to the current financial situation the club were unable to afford to attend the Nike Cup.

Dyer, a product of the Blues' youth system, called Klug to offer a donation towards the £2,000 cost of the Town youngsters attending the tournament in Sunderland next week.

The Newcastle midfielder also told Klug that team-mate Titus Bramble, another academy product, would also help cover the bill. Town vice-president Harold Smith also supplied funds for the trip.

In addition to Dyer and Bramble, former keeper Richard Wright has also pledged cash to the academy if it is required in the future.

Bramble, who moved to Tyneside from Portman Road last summer, says he was happy to be of assistance: "It's no big deal. I was pleased to help. I will always have a soft spot for Ipswich after they gave me my start in football and looked after me as a kid.

"I just didn't want to see the Town lads miss out. Now I hope they go on to give a really good account of themselves."

Dyer and Bramble will also be attending the tournament to lend support to their old club.

The Blues have previously done well in the Nike Cup, winning it during Darren Bent and Darren Ambrose's time as U14s.

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