Reserve coach Steve McCall is expected to be named Town's new chief scout later this week. McCall was previously involved in the club's scouting activities prior to his move into the coaching set-up.

The UEFA Cup winner will take over the role vacated by Colin Suggett, stepping down from his position running the second team. Town are also set to appoint ex-Norwich man Steve Foley to a senior coaching job.

McCall rejoined the Blues as the club's South-West scout in 2000 after leaving Torquay where he was assistant manager. A year later he was appointed scouting co-ordinator, taking on a coaching role in the summer of 2002 as Town reduced their scouting network after relegation.

The 45-year-old played 321 times for the Blues, scoring 12 goals, having made his debut in 1979 in the UEFA Cup tie against Norwegians Skeid Oslo. He left Portman Road for Sheffield Wednesday in June 1987 for £300,000 and went on to play for Carlisle, Plymouth (twice), Torquay and Workington.

Elsewhere, new academy director Tony Humes says he is looking forward to taking over from Bryan Klug: "It was a terrific boost when the club asked me to step up, a real injection of confidence for me.

"It was an easy decision for me obviously, even though I know I am following in some very big footsteps.

"He has been very successful in the academy role over the last nine or 10 years and taking over from him is going to be a challenge in itself.

"I'm looking forward to it though, and there is a real buzz about the place at the moment, both at Portman Road and at the training ground.

"Jim's appointment has caught the imagination of everyone. He's a very positive person and you can see the energy he has for the job.

"I will be in charge and have decisions to make of my own, but Bryan will act as my mentor if you like.

"He has years of experience behind him and there will be times when I will lean on him for advice over certain issues."

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