John Ward: Wordsworth will have to up the tempo

WITH his impending move to Ipswich Town almost complete, Anthony Wordsworth must adapt to the higher intensity of Championship life, according to his former manager.

The Blues are believed to be spending in the region of £100,000 to take the U’s midfielder to Portman Road, with the 24-year-old midfielder out-of-contract in the summer.

Wordsworth made his name as a goalscoring playmaker under Aidy Boothroyd, before John Ward continued to nurture the 6ft 1ins youngster’s talents, and he is expected to join on-loan Wolves defender Richard Stearman, who signed for the rest of the season yesterday, at Portman Road.

Speaking exclusively to the East Anglian Daily Times, Ward believes Wordsworth is still a work in progress but admitted the midfielder had chosen wisely in opting to team up with Blues boss Mick McCarthy and assistant manager, Terry Connor.

“Anthony is a good character and could not have signed for a better club if he wants to realise his potential, as he is still developing as a player,” insisted Ward, now in charge of League Two outfit, Bristol Rovers.

“He will possibly have to quicken up his game as he steps up a level and I have watched Ipswich this season and they play with a good tempo and pace.

“Mick McCarthy’s mantra demands his players work hard, are full of energy and are in the opposition’s face

“Anthony is an acquired taste. He has a languid style and people assume he is lazy, but that is not the case with him, either as a person or a player.

“Some Colchester fans might be pleased to see him go because of that, but the more considered view will be that Ipswich have signed a very good footballer.

“He has a very good left foot and can score goals. I know Terry Connor and how he works with young players, while Mick (McCarthy) is a good man. They have got a good player.

“I hope it works out for Anthony, this is a good move for the young man, and I hope it works out for Mick as I like both of them.”