PORTMAN ROAD: Ipswich Town fans have as vital a role in saving the Super Blues as any new manager, it was stressed today.

The Portman Road faithful can join with the new boss - due to be unveiled on Monday just three days after the end of the Roy Keane era – to make a powerful combination to take the team back to the big time.

The crucial role of the “gems on the terraces” was underscored by ex-Town skipper Mick Mills.

He said the supporters, just like those of 33 years ago who roared the Blues to victory at Wembley, have a pivotal role.

“It has been a tough week for the club so it’s crucial that the fans get behind the team over the coming weeks,” pleaded Mills.

As speculation continued that former Wigan and Derby boss Paul Jewell was the replacement wanted by owner Marcus Evans, Mills called for unity at Portman Road.

“What’s important now is that everyone around the club sticks together, shows their support and focuses on getting the right results on the pitch.

“And that starts against Chelsea. The game will give the players and the supporters a chance a go out and enjoy themselves at a great venue with no pressure on them.

“The Ipswich fans are very knowledgeable and the FA Cup automatically brings back fond memories for them.

“I hope this will be the start of an upturn in the team’s fortunes.”

Meanwhile the theme of a vital role for fans was picked up by The Evening Star, which on Tuesday urged secretive owner Evans to ring the changes.

Dwindling crowds and frustration on the terraces has downgraded Portman Road from an imposing fortress to a happy hunting ground for visiting teams in recent weeks.

But on the eve of Town’s FA Cup tie at Stamford Bridge, The Star is backing ex-star Mills’ plea for unity.

Hovering ominously above the relegation trap door after an appalling sequence of results, Town require every ounce of support in the battle to pull clear of trouble.

A new manager can inject belief into a struggling team - but fresh blood alone won’t guarantee an upturn in fortunes.

The club’s supporters, though, can have a real impact on whether the 2010/11 season is salvaged from the jaws of disaster.

Where now for Ipswich Town? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk