IPSWICH Town have confirmed the permanent signing of Daryl Murphy.

The 30-year-old – who made 92 appearances for the Blues during three separate loan spells – will finally become a permanent signing on July 1 after agreeing a two-year switch following his release by Celtic.

The Republic of Ireland international played an unsung role during the dramatic turnaround under Mick McCarthy’s management last season, scoring seven goals, providing a powerful foil to several strike partners and also filling on the left of midfield on numerous occasions.

“I’m delighted to be back,” Murphy told the club website. “I had a chat with the manager at the end of the season and I’m pleased to get the deal done and finally be an Ipswich player on a permanent basis.

“It’s well documented that I love being at Ipswich and I made no secret that I wanted to return. The fans have been great with me every time I’ve been here and I think the Club is really heading in the right direction.

“Tabby (Jay Tabb) has joined too which is great to see and, like me, he saw the potential the side was showing last season and was keen to come back here.

“Now the focus is getting ready for the new season and I’m already looking forward to coming back for pre-season and meeting up with all the lads again.”

Murphy began his career in his native Ireland with Waterford United, before being brought over to England by McCarthy when he was in charge of Sunderland.

He becomes the third recent loanee to agree to a permanent switch to Town after two-year deals were also arranged for David McGoldrick and Jay Tabb. Midfielder Cole Skuse will also join the Blues on a Bosman free transfer on July 1.