Michael Chopra has finally left Ipswich – to be replaced by Ed Sheeran and Laura Wright.

However it isn’t an unusual bit of transfer market dealing by Mick McCarthy and nor is it an April Fools joke.

Although former Ipswich Town striker Chopra moved on to Blackpool in the summer his image has still loomed large over passengers walking through the booking hall at Ipswich station on a banner above the ticket booths.

His time at the club came to an end under a cloud though and his face has been ignominiously covered with the head of ITFC mascot Bluey for several months.

But now Abellio Greater Anglia has official unveiled a new banner which they hope has a wider appeal.

And alongside images of two of ITFC’s most famous managers, Sir Alf Ramsey and Sir Bobby Robson, are two current stars of the county in singers Ed Sheeran and Laura Wright.

It also features landmark buildings such as Christchurch Mansion, the Ancient House and University Campus Suffolk.

Councillor Carole Jones, economic development portfolio holder at Ipswich Borough Council who was at the unveiling, said: “This is a positive sign for the many thousands of people who arrive here by train and sends out the right message – that Ipswich means business and has something for everyone to enjoy.”

Jonathan Symonds, joint managing director of ITFC said: “We have worked closely on the project with our colleagues at Ipswich Borough Council and Abellio Greater Anglia and we are delighted with the results. The banner provides an uplifting welcome to the town.”