I had to leave Ipswich – Trotter

Trotter made just 18 starts in four years at Ipswich before opting to join Millwall rather than accept a new one-year deal offered by then-manager Roy Keane.

And the midfielde – who was born in the town – has not looked back, cementing a place in Kenny Jackett’s side with eye-catching displays that has seen Premier League sides keep tabs on him.

On the eve of facing his home-town club, the Millwall star said: “I can only have happy memories of my time at Ipswich – it is where I signed my first professional contract, made my debut and scored my first goal.

“But being born and bred in Ipswich, I felt like I was cocooned. I needed to get away and experience a new city and a new way of life in respect of football. And it has gone very well. I am playing week-in, week-out, and that is all I ever wanted at Ipswich.”

Trotter has been earning the plaudits as the attacking point in the Lions’ midfield, scoring 12 goals in 71 starts since joining Millwall, first on loan and then in a permanent deal.

And the 23-year-old is clearly revelling in the position after claiming he was often tasked with a more defensive role due to his 6ft 1ins frame.

Trotter explained: “I have been given more licence to get forward and this is something I do enjoy. In the past, including at Town a few times, I played defensive midfield because of my size. But I think scoring goals, creating chances and getting into good positions is a better part of my game.”

Now Trotter, like with David Wright last weekend, is preparing to test himself against Jimmy Bullard, Keith Andrews, Lee Bowyer and former team mate Grant Leadbitter.

He said: “I think Ipswich’s strongest area is midfield. They have four quality players with Premier League experience and it is going to be difficult for our two central midfielders coming up against their diamond formation.

“It is a challenge but I am confident we can cope and claim the three points tomorrow.”