PAUL Jewell today hailed the ‘scallywag’ who can poach the goals that can take the Ipswich Towns back to the Premier League.

Josh Carson, who will not be 18 until June, was the two-goal hero in Saturday’s 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace at the weekend and is set to be back on the Portman Road pitch looking for more glory when Middlesbrough come to town tomorrow night.

Carson has proved that he has what it takes to compete with Connor Wickham as Ipswich’s hottest young property, and as much as his spectacular first goal needs to be applauded it was his second tap-in that delighted an astute Jewell.

A failure to convert nearly enough balls that have gone into the danger zone has hindered Town’s progress since Darren Bent and Shefki Kuqi enjoyed good times under the management of Joe Royle half a decade ago.

“Josh is a bit of a scallywag, but they make the best footballers,” said Jewell.

“We don’t get enough goals full stop.

“But we certainly don’t get enough of those scruffy goals where the ball’s knocking around the box.

“Josh has got an eye for goal, there’s no doubt about that and I’m really pleased for the lad.

“He cleans my boots but I bet he forgets today, because that’s all he ever does. He’s the worst apprentice I’ve ever had!”

With a ‘Fox in the Box’ in their team next season those extra goals from ‘poacher’ Carson could well be the difference between another season of mid-table mediocrity and a serious push for promotion.

And at the same time ease the pressure on Jewell to muster funds to bring in a proven striker from elsewhere in the summer.

“Josh can handle the big stage,” added Jewell. “He has a mental strength and a great attitude

“He certainly doesn’t lack confidence and he’s tough. He’s not scared and he’s got an eye for goal.

“The kid’s got a big chance and can play in a number of positions, so he’s got a lot of strings to his bow.”

And an extra bonus for Jewell was having the parents of next season’s Under-16 intake sitting in the stands.

“Josh’s success shows that lads will get their chance here, and also how strong our academy is.”