Cole Skuse believes Paul Lambert’s commitment to staying with Ipswich Town regardless of which division they are in next season is a vital step in knitting the club back together.
The Blues have been bottom of the Championship since the middle of October and, despite renewed optimism, improved displays and a vastly improved relationship between touchline and terrace, they remain seven points shy of safety.
But news that Lambert will remain at Portman Road even relegation to League One becomes reality has been well received, with Skuse sharing that sentiment.
“You’ve got to give a huge amount of credit to the manager and his staff,” Skuse said.
MORE: Andy’s Angles: Bishop makes his point with superb display and three goals in 5-0 Under 23 win“It’s great news for everyone in and out the club. His CV speaks for itself, what he’s done in a short time here speaks for itself.
He’s a great guy to have about the place, likewise his staff. It’s great news for everyone.
“I think it’s safe to say he’s got people back on board. There was a bit of patch when things weren’t going right on the pitch and we lost that connection with people off the pitch.
“You can’t have that in a town like Ipswich and a football club like Ipswich. You need everyone together. The fans have been fantastic and the manager has got to get credit for that because he’s doing things right off the field.
MORE: Fuller Flavour: New rules for Norwich clash are a step too far“On the field everyone can see we are trying to do things the right way, we’re just falling a little bit short at the minute. Let’s hope things turn shortly.”
Lambert has augmented his squad with the signing of six new players during the January transfer window, with Skuse impressed with what he’s seen from Collin Quaner, James Collins, Will Keane, Simon Dawkins, Callum Elder and Alan Judge.
“They are very good players, the gaffer’s brought them here for a reason,” Skuse said.
“It’s not the sort of place that’s tough to bed into. We’re very welcoming on and off the field.
MORE: Stuart Watson’s Sunday Verdict: Ipswich Town aren’t bottom because of referees and bad luck“You’re talking about lads who have played at the top end of the tree. They’ve had great careers. James Collins has been different class, on and off the field; Will Keane, top player; Judgey (Alan Judge) has been fantastic; Collin (Quaner) leads the line very well and Callum (Elder) at left-back has had very good games.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here