Morgan has faith in ace Wickham

Elvin King

CONNOR Wickham failed to convert his chances as the Blues were beaten 3-1 by Fulham in the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup at Portman Road last night.

The 16-year-old, who has been a regular in the first team squad this season, needed to blossom if Ipswich were going to beat a talented Fulham Under-18 side.

And Ipswich academy manager Sammy Morgan today admitted that the youngster, who has Premier League clubs looking at him every game, was unable to live up to expectations.

“It's only natural that a lot was expected of Connor,” said Morgan, a former international striker himself.

“Having had a taste it is hard coming back - like a top player dropping down a division or two.

“But we know what Connor can do and I've no doubt he will scored loads of goals and have a career in the game.

“He's still learning his trade and I'm helping him with his movement.

“If he fails to find the target you know he will keep coming back.

“Connor's a good lad and popular with the group.“

Morgan blamed a failure to put away chances as the reason for a defeat that was watched by Blues manager Roy Keane.

Morgan went on: “On overall play Fulham were best, but we had the best chances.

“We had three golden opportunities, and at the end of the day this is what cost us.

“The lads put on a decent display, and although disappointing it is some consolation to know that we were beaten by a good side.

“We went ahead but were unable to see out the game. But their equaliser came from a fortunate deflection.

“Their last goal was from a soft penalty when we were looking for a way back. Our penalty was a soft one as well.”

And looking at the overall picture on the health of the Town academy, Morgan added:

“We've got some good youngsters.

“Tom Eastman did not miss a thing, Luke Hyam made two tackles that shook the stands.

“Kesgrave schoolboy Callum Bennett, who is joining as a scholar this year, looked very comfortable and they all gave everything and showed up well.”