DAN Harding today added weight to the wave of optimism that is sweeping through Portman Road.The left-back is one of the successful signings manager Jim Magilton has made since taking over last summer.

By Elvin King

DAN Harding today added weight to the wave of optimism that is sweeping through Portman Road.

The left-back is one of the successful signings manager Jim Magilton has made since taking over last summer.

And after an end to the season that saw the Blues pocket 23 points from their last 12 games to finish one place higher than last season, Harding cannot wait for next term to start.

He played his part in the 3-1 win over Cardiff City at Portman Road yesterday afternoon as the curtain was brought down on 2006/07.

“There is a feel-good factor around the place,” said Harding.

“The players are aware of it, and I know that our supporters can sense it too. The manager has assembled a squad of decent, honest people - and this is what was wanted.

“Yesterday's game - like the previous half dozen or so - will stand us in good stead for next season when the manager has plans to strengthen the squad.

“It has been a long season, but I have enjoyed it and achieved what I set out to do; play games.”

Town skipper Jason De Vos endorsed Harding's comments, saying: “Next season is going to be exciting.

“There is only one way Ipswich Town are going - and that is up.

“It is disappointing to finish as low as 14th but we are moving in the right direction.

“Four more wins, and we lost a number of games in stoppage time, would have seen us in the play-offs.”

With at least two or three new faces expected to be signed during the summer, De Vos is keeping his fingers crossed that striker Francis Jeffers can be signed full time.

“He is a lovely guy and great to have around the place,” said De Vos.

“Franny has done well on the pitch, and also improved the performances of Alan Lee and Jonathan Walters.

“And Jon is going to be some player. He wins the ball in the air nearly every time, which takes some doing at this level, and he showed yesterday that he has an eye for goal as well.”

Manager Jim Magilton is speaking to all his staff today and tomorrow and those who are leaving will be told their fate - with the hint of a surprise or two in store.