WATT Nicoll, the internationally renowned motivation guru who has been charged with the job of keeping Ipswich Town staff stimulated, today came out in support of Blues manager Jim Magilton.

Elvin King

WATT Nicoll, the internationally renowned motivation guru who has been charged with the job of keeping Ipswich Town staff stimulated, today came out in support of Blues manager Jim Magilton.

“Jim has the potential to be the one,” said Nicoll, who has been working with Town on a part-time basis for two years.

He was on one of his frequent trips to Portman Road yesterday, as he continues his work with Magilton and the playing staff.

“Jim is the third former player I have helped as they have gone into management,” said Nicoll, who was on England's payroll when Kevin Keegan was national team boss.

“David Moyes was the first, and he has gone on to make a very big impression with Everton. He has become one of the best managers in the Premier League.

“And I worked with Chris Coleman also from day one, and he did exceptionally well with Fulham in the top flight.

“These two have done well, but I can tell you now that Jim will be the one.”

There are a considerable number of doubters among the Portman Road faithful who are not convinced about Magilton after what they see as a disappointing start to the season following the purchase of a number of experienced players.

“Fans like to see their team win, and their team at the top of the table,” added Watt. “So their reaction is understandable.

“The Championship is not an easy division to get out off. Teams can all beat each other.

“And let me reassure any doubters that Ipswich Town have got the right man.

“His squad is upbeat and focussed and it follows that success will follow.

“I am not here all the while, but when I walk in I can smell the sweat. I can tell that a great deal of hard work has taken place.”

Nicoll doesn't travel to many away games and it would be fair to say that some players encourage his chats more than others.

But he was at the KC Stadium, Hull two seasons ago when Town put five goals beyond Hull City in Magilton's best away performance.

In 1997, Watt Nicoll was evaluated by his peer group as the top motivational speaker in the world at a conference in Reno Nevada.

He explained his methods. “I excite people,” he said. “I give them the realisation that they can shake off mediocrity and live up to their potential.

“It's a high-energy message, delivered on a frequency that connects with people.”

With his own brand of persistence and determination, Watt has developed a process of self-education and self-awareness that has distinguished him as a world-class resource for the development of human potential.