Ipswich fans based in north Essex today offered their backing to new manager Joe Royle.

Dan Smyth, a season ticket holder who lives in Windmill Park, Clacton, said: "Royle's a likeable, well-respected manager and he's bound to get a positive reaction from the players.."

Gazette columnist Karl Fuller, also from Clacton, urged fans to give their new manager a chance.

Fuller said: "Personally, I thought there were fors and againsts with all the candidates but I'm happy enough with Royle.

"He certainly did a great job on a limited budget at Oldham, getting the best out of the players at his disposal."

Published Tuesday October 29, 2002

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