“I KNOW there are plenty of cynics and pessimists out there,” said Ipswich Town manager Jim Magilton.“We have got to alter that.”Last season was the lowest Ipswich have finished for 40 years, and only wins in the last two matches have allayed fears of relegation to League One.

By Elvin King

“I KNOW there are plenty of cynics and pessimists out there,” said Ipswich Town manager Jim Magilton.

“We have got to alter that.”

Last season was the lowest Ipswich have finished for 40 years, and only wins in the last two matches have allayed fears of relegation to League One.

On the face of it much of the pessimism is understandable.

But from the chairman down, there is no doubt whatsoever within Ipswich Town FC that the good times will soon be returning to Portman Road.

And Magilton added: “I am the most impatient person in the world and I can't wait for things to happen, but I know that I have to be realistic.

“I can understand our supporters being impatient as they want to get back to the Premiership as quickly as possible.

“In this respect we are all desperate to succeed - desperate to bring the top Premier League clubs back to Portman Road.

“But when we get there I want it to be long-term, not just a one-season wonder.

“And we are building the foundations to make this happen.

“I know what this club can deliver.

“Ipswich have been respected throughout the land for many years now, and although we may have slipped a little in the last couple of years my intention is to match the standards of yesteryear.”