Blues manager Gary O’Neil says no one at Town was going to stand in the way of club legend Wes Burns departing for Leicester City this week given his achievements in his five years at Portman Road, even if he’s disappointed not to have him in his squad.

Burns, 31, signed a new one-year deal with the Blues last month but the League One Foxes then came in with a three-year contract which the Wales international was keen to pursue.

Having been such a key man in the three promotions in four years under Kieran McKenna, Town didn’t stand in the former Fleetwood man’s way, allowing him to depart for a nominal £75,000 fee.

“I actually played with him for a bit at Bristol City and he’s had an unbelievable career from that moment and the service that he’s given to this club has been unbelievable,” O’Neil said.

“It was right that he stayed here, we thought he’d be with us this season and that was the right decision.

“But, of course, if something comes up like a three-year contract somewhere and it’s something that helps Wes, there was no way that anyone at this club was going to stand in his way with what he’s given.

“Really pleased for him that he was able to get something that interested him. Disappointed that we’re not still going to have him here, but the service that he provided to this club will be remembered for a long time. I know everyone here is very thankful for what he produced.”

Photo: Matchday Images