SIMON Clegg has insisted that Ipswich Town has not becoming a selling club – despite the fact it only registered a small annual profit thanks to the �11 million sales of Jon Walters and Connor Wickham.

The club yesterday revealed it made a �136,000 profit in the 12 months up to June thanks to the two big-money sales and last season’s run to the Carling Cup semi-final.

But Clegg believes the continued investment of mysterious owner Marcus Evans – to the tune of almost �7 million in the last year – is the biggest factor.

And despite such heavy investment from the owner, Clegg maintained that teenage sensation Wickham was only sold because the price was right.

“We didn’t need to sell Connor Wickham, it is just that we received a particularly good offer from Sunderland and we thought it was right for the club at that time. I think the majority of supporters agree with that.

“He (Evans) has made it very clear that there is no need to sell players but we have a fiscal responsibility so if we get good offers for players which meet or exceed our valuation, we will look at it very carefully.”

The publication of the draft annual report and accounts underlines how important Evans is to safeguarding the club’s future.

And Clegg said: “I am delighted we have made a profit, but it does show how reliant we are on Marcus Evans. We are in a privileged and fortunate position, compared to many, as we have his long-term support.

“Marcus Evans is not going anywhere. He remains absolutely committed to the vision and goal of the football club.”