Tractor Boys will pull out of rut

GEORGE BURLEY believes Ipswich can still achieve an immediate return to the Premiership despite his sacking yesterday.

Town are currently 19th in the Division One table after winning just three of their first 10 games following their relegation from the Premiership last season and Burley has paid the price.

The Scotsman took over at Portman Road in December 1994 and guided the club into the Premiership in 1999-2000 before Ipswich secured a place in the UEFA Cup after finishing fifth in their first season back in the top flight.

But they struggled during the last campaign which resulted in their relegation and a 3-0 loss at Grimsby on Tuesday was the final straw for the 46-year-old as the managerial merry-go-round gathers momentum.

Chairman David Sheepshanks indicated that the need for an immediate return to the top flight prompted the decision and Burley believes that aim can still be realised.

He said: ‘‘I know Ipswich Town Football Club is intent on returning to the Premiership and I have every faith they can still deliver this season.

‘‘I wish them every success and now I am looking forward to beginning a new challenge.’’

Burley praised the supporters for their backing during his time in charge and also revealed his pride at the number of good young players he has brought through the ranks while in the managerial hotseat.

He added: ‘‘I am proud of bringing through some of the best young players in the country such as Kieron Dyer, Richard Wright, James Scowcroft and, this season, Darren Bent and Darren Ambrose. Over that time I have bought players from lower leagues and developed them into regular international players such as Matt Holland and Hermann Hreidarsson,” whilst continually having to generate vital income through the transfer market,’’ he said on the club’s official website, www.itfc.co.uk.

Chairman Sheepshanks believes a change was essential due to the disappointing results of the past year and added: ‘‘After the heady successes of our first year back in the Premiership, last season was a year of bitter disappointments, which culminated in our losing Premiership status. This was despite a huge investment in additional players for combined transfer fees approaching £15million.

Tony Mowbray has replaced Burley on a caretaker basis and will be in charge for the home game against Sheffield Wednesday today.