IPSWICH TOWN: Mark Kennedy has not had his delight diminished about becoming an Ipswich Town player despite picking up a hamstring injury in his competitive debut for his new club at Middlesbrough on Saturday.

He may be 34 and there might be one or two cynics who look at a two-year contract and feel he will not provide good value for money.

But the former Republic of Ireland international has no doubts that there is lot to get excited about on his move to Portman Road from Cardiff City for �75,000.

He said: “If I felt I couldn’t still do it I wouldn’t be here. There’s no doubt about that.

“I’ve still got ambitions and goals and if I felt I wasn’t capable of achieving them, and being a positive influence, I wouldn’t have joined Ipswich.”

And Kennedy, who faces being out of action for three weeks, is happy to link up against with Ipswich manager Roy Keane a former Irish team mate.

“Having the opportunity to play for Roy is one I did not want to pass up,” he added.

“But I want to stress that it was as much about coming to play for Ipswich Town as Roy Keane.

“I know everyone’s absolutely fascinated by him.

“But when you get to know him he’s an everyday guy. He’s just like everyone else.

“But what I will say is that he’s a winner - and a leader and he’s with Ipswich Town to be successful.

“And I join him on that!”

Kennedy’s career has taken him to Millwall, Liverpool, Wimbledon, Manchester City, Crystal Palace and Cardiff and he helped the Bluebirds reach the Championship play-offs last season.

He’s been impressed by what he’s seen in the Ipswich camp having been brought to the club to fill a gaping hole at left back that bugged the Blues all last season.

“There’s great energy in the team and fantastic quality,” he said.

“And a lot of potential.

“Ipswich are renowned for playing good, attractive football and this move was something that really interested me and got me excited.

“If I can help out as one of the more experienced players in the dressing room then that will be great.

“I believe I’ve got a lot to offer the club and if people can learn things from me then fantastic, but it’s a two-way thing and you’re never to old to learn new things.

“I’ve had plenty of ups and a couple of downs, which I wouldn’t change for anything because they make you a better person and a better player.”