Town are close to confirming a pre-season tour of Ireland in early July. TWTD understands that an announcement is likely to be made next week.

The Blues last took a trip to the Emerald Isle in 2001 when they beat Dublin City 5-0 and Bray Wanderers 2-0. Two years ago a friendly with Cork City was pencilled in for the pre-season programme but eventually fell through.

Town's Irish jaunt is likely to take place at some point during the week starting 10th July.

Details of some of the Blues' more local games have already emerged with Conference club Grays Athletic the opposition on Tuesday, 25th July at the Essex side's home ground the Rec. It is likely Town will field a reserve side against the current FA Trophy holders.

Lazio will be at Portman Road on Friday, 28th July for the first of the two friendlies agreed when Matteo Sereni moved on three years ago, while a reserve team will travel to Cambridge United's Abbey Stadium the following afternoon.

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