MARCUS Evans last night reinforced his long-term commitment to Ipswich Town – and said his ambition was still to get the club into the Premier League.

Club owner Evans made his rare public comments on the eve of the third anniversary of his takeover – three years which have seen hugely disappointing performances on the pitch.

The multi-millionaire said: “I remain as committed to Ipswich Town Football Club as when I first became involved...and the target remains the same – to take ITFC back to where it belongs – the Premier League.”

Evans insisted the foundations were in place not only to take the club back to the top flight, but also to keep it there.

However, he made no mention of Roy Keane, who is under extreme pressure following six consecutive league defeats which have seen the team plummet to the fringes of the Championship relegation zone. Evans said: “This needs to turn around quickly.’’

Keane, and his predecessor Jim Magilton, have spent up to �20million on players under the Evans regime, but results have remained disappointing and entertainment levels poor.

This season, crowds have started to dwindle, with the attendance for Town’s last home game against Swansea the lowest for 11 years.

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