Paul Hurst has hailed the Ipswich Town supporters as the ‘best I have managed in front of’.

East Anglian Daily Times: Ipswich Manager Paul Hurst with Nigel Adkins at Hull City Picture PagepixIpswich Manager Paul Hurst with Nigel Adkins at Hull City Picture Pagepix (Image: Pagepix Ltd 07976 935738)

The Blues boss takes charge of his side under the Portman Road lights for the first time when they face second-placed Brentford on Tuesday night, with his side unbeaten in his first three outings on home turf.

While they remain winless from his first eight games in charge, Hurst is grateful for the continued support he has received.

“I think they will be behind us,” he said, looking ahead to tomorrow’s game with Brentford.

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“I have to say, so far, these are the best set of fans I’ve managed in front of in terms of how they back the players and how I haven’t heard any of the negativity that can quite quickly come.

“I know they will be frustrated because I am too. We want the same things, although I’m in a position where you are seeing things and working on it to try and make it happen.

“As a fan you are putting your loyalty out there and hoping the team can deliver.

“I’d be amazed if it’s not that way tomorrow evening.”

Reflecting on his start as a manager at Portman Road – three draws from three games – Hurst said: “We have been pretty good.

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“In the Norwich game I think most neutrals would have said that if anyone deserved to win it was us and on the opening day (against Blackburn) we had a good start, a bit of adversity and then a late equaliser.

“The Villa game, going down to 10 men and still posing a threat was a positive and almost felt like win coming off because of the circumstances.

“The atmosphere at the games has been excellent, I have to say. We want to try and keep that going.

“I’d like to think there will be a good turn-out to pay tribute to Kevin Beattie alone, with maybe a different feel initially at the game, but it’s the first midweek game under the lights which can be very special. We’ll need a special performance because of who we’re up against.”