Tommy Smith is hoping to build on his World Cup experience with New Zealand and hold down a regular place in the Town side next season.

The 20-year-old defender is flying back to the UK over the weekend after impressing in his three games for the All Whites.

The Kiwis drew all three of their group games in South Africa but lost out on a place in the last 16 and Tommy will now take a break from the game before joining up with Blues for pre-season.

"I have to be back in on the 16th July so I get a bit of a break but with the lads back on Monday, I will have a bit of catching up to do," Tommy told the Club website. "I will need the break though to avoid being burnt out.

"Playing in the World Cup has been a great experience. I've got mixed emotions about it because I'm disappointed that we didn't take that extra step and get into the next round.

"I'm proud to have represented New Zealand on the world stage though and to have remained unbeaten in the competition.

"I think what we achieved will be massive boost for the sport in New Zealand. Football has forever been a long way behind rugby in the popularity stakes but with us doing reasonably well, the whole country has stood up and taken notice of the sport.

"More and more kids are taking up football and that can only be good for the development of the game in New Zealand.

"For me personally, I think playing in the World Cup has improved me as a player and I hope that will help me to establish myself in the Ipswich side.

"I have already had a few messages from some of the Ipswich lads saying well done but I'm sure I will get some stick from them when I get back as well."