Voters give thumbs down to Stead loan

IPSWICH Town fans today gave the thumbs down to manager Jim Magilton's transfer window closing day loan signing of striker Jon Stead.

In a special internet poll organised by the Evening Star, nearly 40 per cent of supporters consider the arrival of Stead at Portman Road as a replacement for Alan Lee as 'madness.'

Only six per cent consider it to be an inspired move.

The Blues argue that they have accrued on loan from Sheffield United until January a striker who, at 25, is five years younger than Lee and with a scoring record in the Premier League.

But fans appear to see it otherwise, bearing in mind Stead's lack of goals in recent seasons since he hit the headlines at Huddersfield.

He was effectively regarded as the fifth choice striker at Coca-Cola Championship rivals Sheffield United.

Stead, pictured above, passed a medical at Portman Road on Tuesday but the deal has yet to be formally completed because the secretaries of both clubs are currently away from their offices.

Poll result:

Is Ipswich Town's signing of striker Jon Stead?:

An inspired move: 6% (33 votes).

Interesting, time will tell: 30% (166).

Underwhelming: 25% (139).

Madness, he's a striker who doesn't score: 39% (218).