David Sheepshanks today described as a 'tremendous honour' the news that England are coming to Portman Road.
After more than a year of speculation, Ipswich Town and the Football Association staged a press conference this morning to confirm Croatia's visit on August 20.
Portman Road is set to host an England International on August 20
It will be the first-ever senior England match staged at Portman Road and also the first held at a venue outside the Premiership.
Blues chairman Sheepshanks said: "This is a reflection on the huge improvements we've made to the pitch and stadium in recent years.
"Most of all, though, it is a reward for the extraordinary support this club receives.
"It is a reward for the passionate supporters of East Anglia.
"I'm confident it will be a tremendous occasion and that Ipswich Town will do England proud."
Paul Barber, the FA's director of marketing and communications, said: "We're absolutely delighted to be staging a match in the East.
"We've been just about everywhere else in the country and we're bringing a great record to Portman Road.
"In 29 matches played under Sven we've won 16 times so hopefully we can continue that run at Ipswich."
Town fans will receive no special ticket provision for the match as is the usual policy for 'home' fans since England have been playing away from Wembley.
Instead, all seats for the 8pm kick-off will go on sale through the FA's usual agent, Ticketmaster
Published Wednesday, June 18, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article