Town hope coach Tony Mowbray will remain at Portman Road after offering him a new contract. Mowbray has long hankered after a managerial position of his own but Joe Royle very much wants him to remain part of his staff.

The Town boss put the offer to the man known as Mogga last week: "I spoke to Tony last Friday and asked him to stay on as assistant first team coach. He has been an immense help to myself and Willie since we have been here.

"He is highly respected throughout the game and his close relationship with the players and his knowledge of the game have been beneficial and I have been delighted with his input. We would very much like to keep him."

It is understood that while the Blues are keen for Mowbray to remain at Portman Road, they would not stand in his way if he were offered a management position.

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