Town chairman David Sheepshanks has showered club boss Joe Royle with praise on the day he takes control of a team for the 1,000th time.

Sheepshanks told the club site: "The esteem in which Joe Royle has held among his peers says everything; he is much admired by his fellow managers the length and breadth of the country, not to mention many others in the game.

"He is a man of great stature, an enthusiast and an engaging personality who has the rare ability of commanding both the respect and affection of his players.

"Joe joined us on a mission to return us to the Premiership. Despite the changing economic face of football and the type of conditions in which we and most clubs outside the Premier League have to operate these days, he is now fashioning a team that is increasingly giving cause for optimism.

"I am delighted for Joe to have reached this landmark and, while he deserves all of the accolades he is getting, I know he remains focused on the job at hand."

Royle himself has recalled some of his favourite moments with Oldham, Everton, Manchester City and Town: "I have great memories at all my clubs.

"Oldham was special, reaching Wembley, getting into the Premiership for three years - which is the equivalent of Colchester doing it - and just my 12 years there in general.

"I also enjoyed my time with Everton and Manchester City and there have been some great occasions here at Ipswich as well.

"The win over Sheffield United, the 6-1 victory over Burnley, the comeback at Palace last season. All special memories.

"I am proud to reach 1,000 games, although to be honest it was not something that I was very aware of.

"There aren't too many of us who have reached that figure and it will mean something to me and three points against Reading will be the perfect way to celebrate."

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