The EADT and Ipswich Star today calls for a permanent memorial for Ipswich Town’s greatest ever player, Kevin Beattie.

That’s the call from the East Anglian Daily Times and Ipswich Star today, as the footballing world continues to pay tribute to the Town legend.

Beattie died suddenly on Sunday from a suspected heart attack, aged 64.

Since then there have been calls from fans for a memorial to be built outside Portman Road, near to the statue of Sir Bobby Robson.

EADT and Ipswich Star editor Brad Jones said: “There is little dispute that Kevin Beattie is Town’s greatest ever player.

“I think it would be a fitting tribute to the great man to have a lasting memorial in his honour, and we’re opening discussions with a number of organisations to try to make it happen.”

WATCH: Beattie’s greatest hits – some of his best goals

A Facebook page called “Give Kevin Beattie a Statue at Portman Road” has received strong support.

If the idea of a statue was pursued, Sean Hedges-Quinn, the sculptor behind the Sir Bobby and Sir Alf statues, said it would be an “absolute privilege” to take on the commission.

“It would be an honour, I’d be thrilled,” he said.“I am a season ticket holder, an Ipswich boy through and through.”

“I spoke to Sir Bobby Robson about him many times. He said the first time he saw him he thought he was phenomenal. Throughout he career, nobody had such an impact on him like Beattie.

“He always had time for anybody.”

Mark Ramsay, chairman of the Official Ipswich Town Supporters’ Club, said: “We would be behind it, although a lot of work needs to be done behind the scenes.

“The location needs to be discussed as well.”

Ipswich Town announced there will be minute’s applause before Tuesday night’s game against Brentford at Portman Road to remember Beattie following his sad passing. Yesterday, manager Paul Hurst said: “I haven’t been here long, but I’ve seen how some of the special people in this club’s history have been commemorated here. I think that would be a fitting gesture and I’m sure it’s something that will be looked into.”

“Listening to fans, there’s no doubt what a special talent Kevin was and how highly he was thought of.”