Manager Mick McCarthy and his assistant Terry Connor have signed new three-year deals to stay on at Ipswich Town.

McCarthy took over as manager of the Blues in October 2012, following the sacking of Paul Jewell, and rescued Town from the clutches of relegation during his first season in charge.

Last season, in his first full campaign, McCarthy guided Town to ninth and will be looking to build again this season.

“I am delighted and we will be here for another three years hopefully,” said McCarthy.

“Progress has been made and I want to keep making progress.

“The players returned to pre-season on Friday and their fitness is better than last year, they are looking forward to it, and want to have a good campaign.

Meanwhile, Town have confirmed the signing of former Reading winger Stephen Hunt on a one-year deal, but are facing competition from Championship new-boys Rotherham United to land Hunt’s Republic of Ireland team-mate Paul Green.

McCarthy, meanwhile, would not disclose whether or not any bids had been made for left-back Aaron Cresswell, with Premier League side West Brom the latest team to be linked with the former Tranmere defender.