Released midfielder Vemund Brekke Skard says that leaving Town is a big blow but that he hopes to find another English club. The Norwegian has had his contract settled after failing to impress new boss Jim Magilton.

Skard told a Norwegian paper: "This is a big blow for me. I consider myself as good enough to play at this level, even though the Ipswich manager obviously doesn't agree with that.

"I understand and accept that the new manager wants to create his own team in his own way, and that I've been written off. That's football.

"Hopefully my agent or the club can help me find a new club in England.

"It started out well for me in pre-season, but then things changed. It was a big surprise when Magilton - a couple of days after the official picture of the 2006/07 squad was taken - told me that there was a change and I might be released from my contract.

"That said, my time with Ipswich Town has been great."

Skard will continue to train with the Blues for the next two weeks.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls