Bring back Gino Manzares!

That was the resounding outcome of a poll on this newspaper’s website which asked fans if Gino Manzares, who is currently back in England competing for the USA in the speedway World Cup, would be welcome back at Ipswich Witches.

Just under 200 fans responded, with a staggering 82% saying they would love to see Gino back at Foxhall if not immediately, certainly next season.

A further 12% wanted to wait a couple of seasons, while only six per cent didn’t want him back at all.

Manzares was a bit hit with Foxhall fans during his two-year spell with the club, which ended in 2015 when he failed to failed to achieve a high enough average to gain a visa.

However, the 23-year-old will be hoping to make an impression in the World Cup to tempt a team to take another look at him.

“It would be absolutely amazing to come back to Ipswich. To me it’s my second home,” Manzares said.

“I let the team and fans down in 2015 and it’s been fuelling me ever since. I hope I get to ride in England again some day and I hope to take this opportunity, coming over with the USA team, that I can make something work.

“Mentally and physically I’m ready this time. I will surprise a lot of people.

“I’ve learned so much about myself from that time,” Manzares said.

“Mentally preparing myself every day is the dividing factor.”

Manzares admits he still keeps in touch with some of the current Witches and watches their progress with interest.

“I follow the boys on social media and see they are having a good year,” Manzares added.

“It’s a shame about the injuries they had at the start of the season, but the boys are still looking good. I’ve been in contact with Ritchie Hawkins and Danny King and I’m looking forward to catching up with them, and of course Chris Louis.

“I miss the grind of racing in England. I miss every single thing! The competition over there is the only way to improve.”

The Witches meanwhile are in action at Peterborough on Sunday, 5pm start. The Panthers had a resounding win over one of the title favourites Glasgow Tigers last Sunday.

The Witches are at full strength.