Chris Makin is excited at the prospect of being reunited with the manager who launched his career.

Joe Royle handed the Ipswich defender his League debut during their time together at Oldham Athletic.

And, delighted by the appointment, Makin told the Evening Gazette: "Joe has been given the brief of getting the club back in the Premiership and I'm confident he'll be successful.

"He's a very good, knowledgeable manager with a proven track record over a number of years.

"Obviously, I've known him for a long while and I rate him very highly. I think the board have made a smart move."

Royle's appointment could provoke a mixed reaction from other players, many of whom were hoping caretaker-boss Tony Mowbray would land the job on a permanent basis.

But Makin said: "There won't be a problem.

"The lads are professional and the new manager - regardless of whoever got the job - will have their full respect and support."

Published Wednesday October 30, 2002

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