MARCUS Evans has ordered a root and branch investigation into how Ipswich Town is run.The multi-millionaire owner has already started going through the whole club with a fine tooth comb as he shows his determination to take a hand-on interest in his new acquisition.

Derek Davis

By Derek Davis

MARCUS Evans has ordered a root and branch investigation into how Ipswich Town is run.

The multi-millionaire owner has already started going through the whole club with a fine tooth comb as he shows his determination to take a hand-on interest in his new acquisition.

Key personnel have followed the main executives of the club in visiting Evans' headquarters in Connaught Place London to meet the reclusive Evans and report in.

Evans and his people are keen to understand how a football club like Ipswich Town operates and are working closely with the existing staff to achieve that.

The thorough approach by Evans - headed by Martin Pitcher, who is one of the six directors on the football board that effectively runs the club and the plc board that will be formally elected at the AGM on January 28 - is being received with mixed reactions.

An insider, who asked not to be named, claims the investigation has raised concerns at all levels within Portman Road.

He said: “Naturally people are a bit worried about what will happen to them personally but it is not just at the lower levels it is also among the senior management.

“In many ways this should be a good thing because there are some things that have not been right but you never know what will unfold in the long term.

“Mr Evans and his people are not just asking people what do you do and how does your department work but actually asking for in depth reports and going into everything really thoroughly.”

It is understood for example that Jim Magilton has been asked to supply a complete brief on every aspect of his responsibility including a report on the whole scouting network and

Magilton is pleased with the backing his new boss has given him in the transfer market. In addition the Ipswich manager is also happy with the support he has received over player contracts, as highlighted by Jon Walters new four-year deal.

Evans is scrutinising the famed Academy looking at how it could be improved and its value to the club. Medical facilities, catering and stadium upkeep are all being examined.

Although Evans has handed day-to-day responsibility to the existing executives, he has demanded to be kept informed on all goings on and is understood to be actively involved in helping to secure a new main sponsor.

One area Evans has been particularly keen to look at is the ticket office and as someone who knows how to sell tickets, is looking at ways of encouraging greater attendances at Portman Road.

Evans took over at Ipswich Town in December after paying around £12m for an 87.5 per cent stake in the club, he has also bought the £32m debt from Norwich Union and Barclays for around £6m.

The club declined to comment on the business audit being carried out by Evans.

derek.davis@archant.co.uk