Ipswich Town: The Modern Era – a Complete Record

Ipswich Town: The Modern Era – a Complete Record

Although it took Ipswich Town FC many years to take the plunge and turn professional, once they did so they quickly prospered. Town joined the Football League in 1938, and before 20 seasons had elapsed had three divisional championships in the bag – including, astonishingly, the League title at the very first attempt! A team of unsung ‘country cousins’ profited from the tactical innovations of manager Alf Ramsey. His departure in 1963 to answer England’s call coincided with a rapid decline in fortunes. Eventually Town’s directors took a chance on the young and unemployed Bobby Robson. The enthusiastic Geordie repaid their faith and patience by winning the F.A. Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981, and achieving no fewer than nine top-six finishes in the Football League. Like Ramsey, Robson would leave to coach England, signalling another temporary decline at Portman Road. With the coming of the 21st Century, Town were once again back in Europe, winning friends for their stylish football under George Burley. Since then, the Joe Royle Era has come and gone, and Jim Magilton hopes to restore former glories. This book examines in encyclopaedic detail the most recent 35 years of a unique and fascinating football club.