Hamilton eager for Ipswich return

Former Northern Ireland boss Bryan Hamilton is ready to bite David Sheepshanks’ hand off if he offers him the Portman Road manager’s job.

Hamilton, who was George Burley’s first-team coach until May, told PA Sport he would leap at the opportunity of replacing the sacked Scot.

Town chairman Sheepshanks is finalising the shortlist of candidates for the job – and plans to hold talks with bosses both in and out of work early next week.

Hamilton, asked if he would accept the job if Sheepshanks offers it, said: “Oh yes, I’d most definitely take it.

“Ipswich is my club – and the manager’s job would would be a tough job but a good one.

“They haven’t invited applications yet, so I’ll wait and see if they do.

“I worked there for two of the last four years as first-team coach and would like to be part of it again.

“I joined George last November and stayed until the end of the season, when I left purely because of the financial situation.

“Ipswich were in a difficult position and had to make serious cuts. I was one of those.

“I never expected to leave and I was disappointed to leave. But I know it’s a good place to be and a good place to work.

“Ipswich is a smashing club with very good players and a Premiership stadium and training ground.”