Jonathan Parr has been challenged to cement the left-back berth at Ipswich Town this season, having played second fiddle to Tyrone Mings last season.

The Norwegian international made 24 league starts during his first Championship campaign with the Blues last season, but was often utilised at right-back or in midfield, due to Mings’ emergence on the left-hand side.

Manager Mick McCarthy expressed sympathy for the former Crystal Palace defender, who has won nine caps for his country, and has left the door open for the 26-year-old to become first choice in his favoured position next term.

“Jonny was great having got in at Millwall, I played him wide left that day and he went on and scored (in a 3-1 win),” said McCarthy.

“He had a few games wide left, wide right and at right-back but sometimes being a good utility player does not do you any favours because you get moved around. But he was signed as a left-back and we have just lost the best left-back in the division in Tyrone Mings.

“I was sad for Jonny as that’s his position. Well, he’s under pressure to perform now isn’t he?”

McCarthy is still believed to be chasing an established right-back, but has bolstered his options in defence with the signing of former Cardiff City youngster Josh Yorwerth.

The Bridgend-born 20-year-old failed to break through at Cardiff City, but the Blues boss has now given him the chance to shine at Portman Road.

“Josh is a centre-back from Cardiff who came and trained with us towards the end of last season,” added McCarthy.

“He is a good defender I would say. He is tall, has a bit of pace and can play a bit out of the back.

“He is a really good competitor and struck me as someone that would be good for our squad and I am looking forward to working with him.”

Meanwhile, Mick McCarthy has confirmed that youngsters Josh Emmanuel and Myles Kenlock have joined the first-team on the pre-season tour of Ireland.

“We’re taking Josh Emmanuel and Myles Kenlock with us. They’ve impressed me and they will join us out in Ireland.

“Then there’s the likes of Alex Henshall, who’s come back with a great attitude, Dylan Connolly and Ainsley Maitland-Niles for us to have a good look at.”