‘He’s settled quicker than snow... he’s got bags of potential’ - Spence on ‘great character’ Cotter

Barry Cotter celebrates with the fans after the Ipswich Town v Barnsley match. Picture: STEVE WALLER WWW.STEPHENWALLER.COM (Image: � Copyright Stephen Waller)

Cotter, 19, was the star of the show as the Blues beat Barnsley 1-0 in what proved to be Mick McCarthy’s final game in charge, with his substitution before the hour mark bringing boos and cheers in equal measure as the home crowd vented their frustrations that his debut ended so soon.

The wing-back was calm, confident and showed his full range of ability both on and off the ball during his first appearance, leaving Spence and his team-mates impressed.

“It was really good, wasn’t it, it was so exciting to watch,” Spence said.

MORE: ‘It was the best day of my life so far’ - Cotter reflects on impressive Ipswich debut

Barry Cotter lines up ahead of his Town debut in the Ipswich Town v Barnsley (Sky Bet Championship) match. Picture: STEVE WALLER WWW.STEPHENWALLER.COM (Image: © Copyright Stephen Waller)

“I enjoyed watching it from just inside him – watching him run around. He’s full of beans and anyone who’s had a chance to be around him will know – the boys say he’s settled quicker than snow, which is great.

“He’s a great character, it was a fantastic performance and that’s just what he’s been doing in training.

“The manager (McCarthy) has seen that, signed him, given him his chance and he’s done exactly what he would have been dreaming of doing.

“He’s a great lad and has bags of potential.”

Barry Cotter with an effort that missed the target late in the first half. Picture: STEVE WALLER WWW.STEPHENWALLER.COM (Image: © Copyright Stephen Waller)

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When asked whether he was expecting an interesting battle between himself, Cotter and returning Rotherham loanee Josh Emmanuel next season, Spece said: “I haven’t thought that far ahead yet, but competition for places is always good.

“If you’re in a place where your shirt isn’t under threat then either you’re not playing particularly high in the football calendar or you are Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

“It is what it is and I’ll continue to do what I’ve been doing for the 30-odd games I’ve played this season and try and finish well.”

Barry Cotter rues a missed chance late in the first half. Picture: STEVE WALLER WWW.STEPHENWALLER.COM (Image: © Copyright Stephen Waller)

Barry Cotter rises high above Adam Hammill to win the ball in the Ipswich Town v Barnsley (Sky Bet Championship) match. Picture: STEVE WALLER WWW.STEPHENWALLER.COM (Image: © Copyright Stephen Waller)