AUSSIE starlet Joe Gibbs has been invited to train for a week with Ipswich Town.

Derek Davis

AUSSIE starlet Joe Gibbs has been invited to train for a week with Ipswich Town.

The 16-year-old Manly United attacking midfielder will arrive at Portman Road in early October after being invited along as part of his prize for winning the prestigious Lucas Neill scholarship in his native Australia.

Gibbs will also spend time with Premier League outfit West Ham and Blackburn, Neill's former clubs, as he seeks to use the trip for education and experience as much as the attempt to earn a professional contract.

The youngster said: “I don't know what is going to happen over there. I'm going to take as much out of it as possible.”

Manly United head coach Phil Moss believes Gibbs character coupled with his ability will hold him in good stead.

He added: “Joe can create and score goals and I have the utmost faith in his ability. He also has great awareness and is very gifted when it comes to the technical side of his game.

“I have no doubt Joe will do himself and the club proud.”

Gibbs will be the third recipient of the scholarship to try his luck in England with Chris Payne now at Sydney FC the first winner.

The Blues are also due to allow Slovakian Under-19 international keeper Matej Randos to train with them for a few days after he was released by Southampton in the summer.

derek.davis@eadt.co.uk