It was with considerable pleasure and I know much to the relief of many fans that I was able to confirm after the last game against Reading that we have signed Connor Wickham through to the end of the 2011/12 season.

Discussions had been ongoing for many months heading up to Connor's 17th birthday and I'm delighted that he has committed his immediate future to playing for Town and he certainly celebrated in style with his excellent performance two days later in the match against Derby, scoring once again and assisting Carlos Edwards' goal.

Connor has been with us since he was 10-years-old and is an outstanding product of our excellent Academy and much credit must go to Sammy Morgan, the Academy Manager and all his staff for the great work they do to nurture potential talent.

This year the manager has decided to offer all seven graduating scholars professional contracts, once again demonstrating the value of the investment we make in the Academy.

However as Roy has explained to everyone involved, this is just the start, his expectations of them now that they are professional players will be far greater than everything they have experienced to date as apprentices.

There is nothing that would give me more pleasure than to see all seven players being engaged on second professional contracts but they have a huge amount of hard work in front of them if their professional careers are to progress.

I am delighted that once again we will be hosting the Manchester United U15s at Portman Road on Friday 23rd April.

This annual fixture has become a real showcase event and in my first week at Portman Road last season, I was delighted to enter the stands and look up at the scoreboard and see Ipswich 2 Manchester United 0 and thinking 'now that's ambition'!

I'd also like to take this opportunity on behalf of the Club and in particular the players, to recognise and thank the fans for all their support this season, especially those who travel to away games.

As we approach the final trip of the season, another long one - to Newcastle next weekend - we recognise the huge commitment in time and money away fans make to follow this team.

We recognise that we have tried your patience and loyalty this season and you have never been found wanting,. Four away wins and eight draws is not what we want or expect and every effort will be made to ensure better consistency and more points away from home next season.

Enjoy today's game