I have a new theory – and I don’t think it’s going to be terribly popular with long-suffering Town supporters.

When this long, tortuous season finally comes to an end, we know Marcus Evans and Mick McCarthy will sit down to have a chat.

I’m assuming McCarthy’s future will be the first item on the agenda.

I suppose that conversation could end with a parting of the ways, but I really don’t think that will be the case.

In the last few days, Mick has told us he certainly won’t walk away.

Evans’ track record would suggest he will give the manager more time to build for the future.

Look how patient he was with Keane and Jewell.

So… this is my theory. McCarthy will go away on his holidays, knowing he is still Ipswich Town manager. He will have a limited amount of money to spend in the summer.

The new season will then kick off, and everyone will hope there’s a significant improvement.

By that I mean we play some entertaining football, with attacking intent and, of course, we see improved results.

If the team are in the top half come the end of October, playing decent football, and the fans are reasonably content, then I’m sure Evans will leave well alone.

If, on the other hand, we’re still languishing in the bottom half, flirting with the relegation zone, the football remains dire, and the fans are still alienated, then I’m convinced the owner will act.

So, I believe McCarthy has between now and the end of October to sort it out.

It definitely won’t be easy.

History tells us Evans won’t throw big money at improving the squad.

Plus, McCarthy has a whole lot of bridges to build with the supporters.

It wouldn’t take too many poor performances next season for the jeers to start again.

Also, generating a good atmosphere with much smaller crowds will be tough.

McCarthy clearly believes he remains the right man for the job.

He’s not a quitter, which is why I think he’ll still be here at the start of next season.

It might just be the toughest task he’s had in his many years as a football manager.