THE chairman of Ipswich Town Supporters Club has called on fans to rally behind new manager Paul Jewell and show “patience rather than frustration”.

The former Wigan and Derby County manager was today officially named as Roy Keane’s successor, putting himself in the middle of a relegation battle with concerns over the style of football played and the dwindling numbers attending Portman Road.

But Liz Edwards believes Jewell can bring a boost to the ailing club and has welcomed his arrival as the new manager.

Edwards said: “On behalf of members of the Supporters Club, I am delighted to welcome Paul Jewell to Ipswich. He is an experienced manager with a good track record.

“We all remember how his Wigan team pipped Town for promotion back in 2005, how he developed players, built a squad, and how their style of football was so widely praised.

“His memories of Ipswich may not be great - he left Derby after a defeat to Town in December 2008. He will understand our priorities - turn results around so we are not fearing relegation, get us climbing the league, put a smile on the faces of fans and players alike. For now, anything else would be a bonus.

“New managers rarely take over a successful team or a stable situation, and so I am sure he understands the challenge ahead. I call on all fans to rally behind Paul Jewell and the team, show patience rather than frustration, and look forward to better times ahead.”