FM10: Official Ipswich Town Thread - Suffolk pride

[Prongsie92]

Welcome to the thread for

Ipswich Town Football Club

Nation: England

Year Founded: 1878

Status: Professional

Reputation: National

Chairman Status: Loves the club

Fierce Rivals: Norwich

Other rivals: Colchester, Sheffield United, West Ham

Finances: Secure

Estimated Value: $27.5m ($46.5m)

Media Prediction: 8th

Transfer budget: $4.7m-$7m

Wage budget: $300k-$350k

Background/History

Ipswich Town Football Club, also known as Ipswich, The Blues, Town or The Tractor Boys, are an English professional football club based in Ipswich, Suffolk. They play their home games at Portman Road in Ipswich and are the only fully professional football club in Suffolk.

The club was founded as an amateur side in 1878. Ipswich were known as Ipswich A.F.C. until 1888 when they merged with Ipswich Rugby Club to form Ipswich Town Football Club. The team won a number of local cup competitions, including the Suffolk Challenge Cup and the Suffolk Senior Cup. They joined the Southern Amateur League in 1907 and, with results improving steadily, became champions in the 1921–22 season.

The club won the league a further three times, in 1929–30, 1932–33 and 1933–34, before becoming founder members of the Eastern Counties Football League at the end of the 1934–35 season. A year later, the club turned professional and joined the Southern League, which they won in its first season and finished third in the next. Ipswich were elected to The Football League in 1938, and played in Division Three until the end of the 1953–54 season, when they won the title and promotion to Division Two. The club were immediately relegated back to Division Three the following year at the end of a poor season, but made better progress after Scott Duncan was replaced as team manager by Alf Ramsey (The Legend) in August 1955. The club won the Division Three title again in 1956–57 and returned to the higher division. This time, Ipswich established themselves in Division Two, and as the division champions, won promotion to the top level of English football, Division One, in 1960–61.

In the top flight for the first time, Ipswich became Champions of the Football League at the first attempt in 1961–62. Ramsey, who left to lead England to the 1966 World Cup, was replaced by Jackie Milburn under whose leadership fortunes on the pitch plummeted. Two years after winning the league title, Ipswich slipped down to the Second Division in 1964, conceding 121 league goals in 42 games. Milburn quit after just one full season and the club remained in the Second Division for four years until Ipswich received promotion; Bobby Robson replacing McGarry (who had left to join Wolves).

Robson led Ipswich to two major trophies and several seasons in top flight European football. The successful period began in 1973 when the club won the Texaco Cup and finished fourth in the league, qualifying for the UEFA Cup for the first time. Ipswich regularly featured in the top five of the league and in the UEFA Cup. Major success came in 1978 when Ipswich beat Arsenal at Wembley Stadium to win their only FA Cup trophy, the triumph was followed by a UEFA Cup victory in 1981.

Robson's success with Ipswich prompted The Football Association to seek his services as manager of the English national team, and in August 1982 he was replaced at the club by his assistant Bobby Ferguson, having taken up the F.A.'s offer. Under Ferguson, Town finished mid-table twice but worsening performances meant that they began to struggle in the top division. Ipswich were finally relegated to the second tier in 1985–86. Ferguson, who had remained in charge despite the relegation, resigned in May 1987 after reaching the promotion play-offs but failing to return the club to the first division. Ipswich Town were then managed by John Duncan for three years until he was replaced by former West Ham boss John Lyall in May 1990. Lyall guided Ipswich to the Second Division championship and promotion to the new FA Premier League, ready for the 1992–93 season. Suffering only two league defeats before the New Year, Ipswich started the season well and were fourth in the Premier League in January 1993, but a dip in form during the final weeks of the season saw Ipswich finish in a disappointing 16th place. Poor form continued into the following season and Ipswich narrowly avoiding relegation that year. Six months later, fortunes on the pitch had not improved, and Lyall was sacked as Ipswich manager in December 1994 with the club rooted to the bottom of the Premiership.

Lyall's successor, George Burley, was unable to turn team performances around and Ipswich were relegated to the Second Division. Back in the second tier of the league, Burley led the club to three consecutive promotion playoffs, but they were to endure defeats in all three semi-finals. Ipswich finally returned to the Premiership in 2000 and performed well in the Premiership in their first season with Burley's side finishing in an impressive fifth place—being pipped by Liverpool on the last day of the season for a place in the Champions League.

This spell in the top division ended after two seasons and the loss of income due to relegation led to the club going into financial administration. A poor start to the season meant that Burley was sacked in October 2002 after nearly eight years as manager. Former Manchester City manager Joe Royle replaced Burnley and narrowly failed to reach the playoffs. Royle again took Ipswich to the play-offs before seeing Ipswich finish at 15th in the 2005–06 season. Joe Royle resigned by mutual consent and Jim Magilton officially replaced him.

In November 2007, the club were involved in takeover discussions with Marcus Evans. Evans completed his takeover of the club; buying off the club's debt and injecting the club with money to aim for promotion.

First Team Squad

Goalkeepers

Richard Wright - A homegrown 'keeper with Premier League experience, having spent time with Arsenal, Everton and West Ham, and Ipswich's first choice for the man in-between the nets. His main strength is in shot-stopping but his aerial ability and command of his area is considerably poor.

Arran Lee-Barrett - Another homegrown 'keeper that was brought in following Shane Supple's retirement and only on a 6 month contract that expires on 31/12/09. His stats are extremely poor for a back-up Championship goalkeeper and managers will be best looking for a loan 'keeper until Brian Murphy arrives in January.

Brian Murphy - The Bohemians 'keeper has an arranged transfer to join Ipswich at the start of the January transfer window. His stats are adequate for a back-up to Richard Wright and he'll do well in the Championship however managers looking to prepare for the Premiership might want to look for a stronger goalkeeper early on.

Right-backs/wing-backs

Liam Rosenior - On-loan at the start of the season from Reading until the end of the senior. His stats are well-balanced and he'll play well in either right-back or right wingback. His only concern may be his tackling and strength attributes; which may be exploited by opposing teams.

David Wright - Transfer-listed at the start of the season and (in my opinion) should be kept. In addition to being able to play across the back four; he rarely has dips in form and mistakes are rare. A good back-up player to have on the bench and more than able to step up into the first team.

Centre backs

Gareth McAuley - Former Captain of Ipswich. A very good defensive player, who's physical presence could perhaps do with improvement, but a very poor attacking player. A contender for a starting position but managers would be better to ensure he stays back and avoid making any attacking moves.

Pim Balkestein - Able to play at CB and LB. His aerial ability and speed may be used alongside a stronger, slower CB to provide a good partnership but he has a tendency to stray out of position. Still relatively young and a good choice as a sub.

Alex Bruce - A well-rounded CB that is currently the Ipswich Captain. His aerial ability, defensive stats and physical presence make him a first-choice as a CB. Young at 24 but stats aren't likely to change much during the season. Capable enough to continue into the Premiership for bottom-half sides.

Tommy Smith - Young CB that would be more suited to the Reserve side for a few seasons. Poor mental stats and low defensive stats. Managers might be better loaning out for a few seasons to build his potential up.

Left-backs/wing-backs

Damian Delaney - A strong aerial player, Delaney is (just) capable of being the first-choice for left-back. His attacking stats aren't that great, which may limit managers that want to push up in a wing-back style. Advantages are definitely his physical presence and his aerial ability, which may make managers play him as a CB.

Ben Thatcher - Injured at the start of the season for 1-2 months, he starts on the transfer list and in the reserves. Whilst his defensive stats are better than Delaney's; he's a poor back-up and very limited to the LB position.

Left midfielders/wingers

Lee Martin - First choice for the left despite playing best at AM. His blistering speed should be used to get the best out of the player. Good attacking stats for the Championship but very poor defensive and aerial stats.

Luicho Civelli - Injured until the January Transfer Window. He can play anywhere down the left but is best at AML. Average stats and would be good for Championship but will struggle later on.

Alan Quinn - A good back-up to Lee Martin and perhaps some managers first-choice for LM. His stats are well-rounded and he's capable of playing in any position across the middle of the park. Starting to age but a reliable player.

Defensive midfielders/Centre midfielders/Attacking Midfielders

Colin Healy - Best at CM that's capable of playing in DM and along the right (after positional training). Has a high rating in passing but is, at best, a back-up player for mid-table teams. Managers may be inclined to sell him due to his age and weak stats.

Liam Trotter - Homegrown player that plays best in DM. Good aerial and defensive abilities who plays best when instructed to close down players. His potential is limited and those aiming for instant promotion would be better off using Trotter only in injury crisis'.

Jack Colback - On-loan CM from Sunderland until the end of the season. Good defensive and mental stats but weak in his attacking, technical and physical. Would be more suited for a team that prefers to play defensive football but doesn't have the ability that's required for promotion-seeking teams.

Owen Garvan - Well-balanced CM that should be able to perform well for most Championship teams. Slightly slow which limits his ability. Promotion-seeking teams would be best to have Garvan on the bench as a back-up to Grant Leadbitter.

Grant Leadbitter - A good CM that'll be able to do well with any Championship side and some lower-half Premiership sides. Operates extremely well as a box-to-box player or an advanced playmaker. First choice player for CM.

David Norris - Injured until January. A strong physical player with good speed that should do well as a box-to-box player but limited in his defensive and attacking players. Some managers may prefer to sell him and bring in a new CM to partner Leadbitter.

Right midfielders/wingers

Carlos Edwards - A very good winger that'd do well in lower premiership sides. Best used as an advanced playmaker and allowed to bomb down the right before making the cross. Highly effective with strong targetman with excellent aerial ability (Walters).

Forwards/Attackers

Jonathan Walters - Plays best as a AMR but makes for a very good targetman. His aerial ability is fantastic and managers should use that to their advantage. His speed and physical presence may cause him to play badly against a strong defense or if played as a striker. First choice forward alongside a pacy striker.

Pablo Counago - Injured for two months at the start of the season. By far the stronger striker in terms of physical presence and technical ability. His attacking stats are good for most Championship sides but he shouldn't be used as a pacy striker. First choice forward/back-up striker.

Tamas Priskin - Pacy striker with good attacking stats. Not overly great in the air but if partnered with a strong targetman should be able to bang goals in for fun. Seems to play best when used as a poacher as his passing lets him down. First choice forward/back-up striker.

Jonathan Stead - Well-balanced striker that'll work well in most roles. Consistence seems to be an issue and may be more suited as an impact sub. Back-up striker

Recommendations

Overall, the Ipswich side should be able to secure a mid-table result with their current side. However for those wanting to secure promotion, there are several weak points that have to be addressed during pre-season.

With no back-up for Richard Wright until January, bringing in a goalkeeper either on-loan or via a transfer is a priority. My recommendations are Asmir Begovic from Portsmouth or Tom Heaton from Manchester United. Both provide good back-up and with some first-team games and the right training; should become strong contenders for the No.1 Jersey.

The left-back position is also in dire need of strengthening and the backroom advice from your staff is Michael Ball on free transfer. He'll walk into the first-team position and hold that spot for some time. However you will face strong competition from other Championship sides and some lower-half Premiership sides. If you don't secure him, Tommy Spurr from Sheffield Wednesday is also capable of adding much needed talent to LB but may prove costly (at least 3m).

Those that are truly gunning for automatic promotion may wish to strengthen the CB position. Your staff will recommend Sol Campbell, who should do very well but more often than not will go to a Premiership side. Chris Riggott from Middlesbrough, also recommended by your backroom staff, will also fit into the defense. He may be costly however with his estimated value at $2.7m.

For the middle of the park, I cannot recommend William Kvist from FC Kobenhavn enough. Transfer listed for $1.7m at the start of the game, he plays excellent as box-to-box midfielder or an Advanced Midfielder alongside Grant Leadbitter. Additionally, Gary O'Neil from Middlesbrough also plays well in the Ipswich side in a more defensive role. His may prove costly at an estimated value of $2.7m,

Left midfield is also a position that could use strengthening. Nacer Barazite from Arsenal provides a good back-up to Martin/Quinn and adds a very useful player to the Ipswich side. You should be able to get him without a loan fee and his wages aren't overly high ($4,100 a week). Additionally, Geovanni dos Santos from Tottenham may be willing to join Ipswich. He rejected my loan deal (I offered Tottenham $0 loan fee and 70% wage fee) but my former experience was as a Sunday League player. Those with a better experience rating may have better luck, although Stoke typically offer a loan deal in the first few days.

Whilst the Ipswich strikeforce is strong enough for the Championship, there is little back-up in the reserves for injuries. Ebi Smolarek on a free transfer is a good deal and he's more than capable of working alongside Walters or Priskin. Additionally, he'll serve well in the Premiership. Mark Viduka on a free transfer is also a good option, although he's best used as a poacher.

Overall, the squad has room for improvement but is capable of holding a position in the Championship with ease.

The backroom advice recommends a formation of 4-4-2. 4-3-1-2 or 4-5-1. Personally, using the very nice tactic maker, I recommend using a 4-2-4 formation with the following settings and players.

Playing Philosophy: Fluid

Passing style: Shorter

Creative Freedom: Default

Closing down: Press More

Tackling: Default

Marking: Zonal

Crossing: Drill Crosses

Roaming: Default

GK: Goalkeeper

DR: Wingback

DL: Wingback

DC: Ball playing Defender

DC: Limited defender

MC: Box-to-box midfielder

MC: Ball winning midfielder

AMR: Advanced playmaker

AML: Advanced playmaker

ST: Targetman

ST: Poacher

                    R.Wright
Rosenior   D.Wright   A.Bruce         Delaney

              Leadbitter Garvan
Edwards                                   Martin
             Priskin     Walters

I've personally found this to be highly effective is using the best of what Ipswich has to offer from the start, and then building up the squad to fit the tactics. Others may want to try other styles

Staff

The Ipswich board will only allow 6 coaches and with 7 currently at the club, most of which could do with replacing, I'd advise a serious clearout of the backroom and replace them with more capable coaches.

By far, your best staff member is Bryan Klug.

Assistant Manager

Tony Loughlan - Perfectly average. I'd recommend replacing Loughlan with Klug as your assistant and releasing Loughlan.

Coaches

Bryan Klug - An excellent asset to have in your backroom. He'll be wanted by Portsmouth and a few others at the start, so tie him down as your assistant manager as soon as possible otherwise you'll be left stranding in a sea of despair.

Steve Foley - Average coach that barely makes 3* training. Recommended that you sack him and bring in a better coach.

Chris Kiwomya - Former Town striker turned coach. Only saving grace is a 14 in attacking coach. Would recommend sacking though.

Gerard Nash - Very poor stats. Should be your first sacking as a manager.

James Hollman - Goalkeeping coach. Not overly brilliant but should be sacked later.

Antonio Gomez - Competant Fitness coach. Will provide good star ratings for training. Keep him.

Simon Thadini - Not as good as Gomez and two fitness coaches aren't required. Sack him.

I'd recommend bringing in:

Paul Power from Manchester City

Tony Whelan from Manchester United

Paul McGuinness from Manchester United

Eamon Mulvey from Manchester United

These staff members should give you a good training rating, as well as boasting your backroom advice meters up a few notches. All are wiling to join as Coaches or First Team Coaches.

I certainly hope this helps a few. Happy playing!

Come on you Blues!!

[Hannawald5]

Very nice. Might use it when I try playing as Ipswich tonight...

Or... will use it since I don't know much of Ipswich

[krakonico]

I'm eager to read the history...

[Lisandro Lopez]

Any chance of putting in a club badge/logo? Ta.

[Prongsie92]

@krakonico: History and background have been tweaked and displayed underneath the lovely club badge - caught a few errors so hopefully it's up to the required standards and a good read.

@HoPeY: Changed the club badge/logo to a different host. Hopefully it'll stop hiding in the shadows

[grintricha1]

have tried the klug to ass man but he always says no and then leaves for portsmouth

any other recommendations for ass man (I can't now filter out unrealistic targets as I don't have an ass man ;-)?

fans weren't happy about smolarek, but then that's true to life as town fans are very rarely happy at the moment

can get zuculini (non hoffenheim one) for cheap

I have also got glauber who is better than bruce/macauley

it's going to be a long tough season me thinks

[Prongsie92]

Tony Colbert (Man Management 16, Level of Discipline 18 and Motivation 19) from Arsenal, Dan Ashworth (Man Management 17, Level of Discipline 16 and Motivation 14) from West Brom and Richard Hill (Man Management 16, Level of Discipline 16 and Motivation 16) on a free transfer look to be the best available.

Once I've gotten close to January I'll put my results up. Brought in Tom Heaton (825k), William Kvist ($1.7m), Nacer Barazite (loan), Ebi Smolarek (free) and Tommy Spurr ($3.6m). Won 4 friendlies, drew one (AssMan in control against Histon) and lost against AC Milan 4-2. Won against Coventry and Leicester in Championship: beating Dag and Red in the League Cup. Team is looking promising; team is very dominating and fully in control. Clean sheets and multiple goals. Should be a good season

[jcdavies]

Really good preview thanks alot.

will check out the staff issue more when the real game gets released and just playing about at the moment. just to let u knwo what players i have got.

Jay Demerit (watford) 975k great defender and made him captain right of the bat would highly recommend better than any of the defenders in the squad

Don Cowie (watford) 500k good player has started really well for me 2 assists and 1 goal in 3 games can play any where in midfield and would make a great backup when promoted

Amr Zaki (zamalek) 1.9m thought i would take a gamble on him in 3 games got two goals and two assists so looking great so far

[foxygti6]

Im doing quite well with Ipswich.

Signed Ritchie Delaet and Magnus Eikrem form Manutd on perm deals (1.6m and 450k) and Kvist for 1.1m

Signed Viduka on a free

Signed Barazite and Brandy on loan from Arse / Man Utd

I also sacked the assistant manager and bought in Sbragia from sunderland (he comes because hes a scout?!) And Archie Knox as 1st team coach on a free.

Walters does indeed make an excellent target man. As does Viduka with ball played into his feet. I tend to use the raw pace (18) of Brandy alongside Viduka but Walters has 3 in 3 as 3rd choice.

The squad is a bit injury prone but Ive had the same back 4 all season and Delaet is superb at left back even though centre back is his best position.

[Prongsie92]

Well, reached the end of the demo. Got several good runs of no-losses (W17D8L2 including Leagues and Cups) and I'm sitting at top of the Championship.

I brought in James Chester as a CD back-up and he's quickly gained a first-team spot. Doubt I'll get him in 10/11...got my eyes on several others in preparation for the Premiership. Also ended up getting Arsenal as a feeder club; so I'm hoping that might produce a few good deals next season/loan window.

Overall, squad is performing well. Smolarek is currently leading my goalcharts with 14 goals in 20 Appearances (7.32 average rating). Priskin is shortly after with 11 goals in 21 appearances (6.96 average rating) then Walters in third with 6 goals in 22 appearances (7.01 average rating). Wish Walters would bag some more but then I'm mainly operating him as a supporting attacker or a winger. As for assists: Lee Martin (8), Carlos Edwards (8) and William Kvist (6) are all doing brilliantly, got a few others around the 5/4 mark.

Transfer-wise; I'm going to begin preparing for the premiership now and begin getting rid of the deadwood. Most likely going to flog: Damian Delaney, Jon Stead, Jaime Peters, Ben Thatcher, David Norris and Pablo Counago. Transfer targets: James Tamkin (a big hope,,,perhaps on loan), a pacey Prem. striker, a strong RB, youngish GK prospect and a LM. Hopefully the Prem. TV Revenue is going to be as high as it was in FM09...

A great start to the season. Shame I have to wait a while until I can continue.

[jcdavies]

any one play with a 4 5 1 formation with two advanced wingers and a dm???

was doing awfully with a 442 so switched to this with walters as a target man and played trotter as the dm but want to find someone diffrent thinking of going with this formation when the game starts but need to find a good dm to make it really work any one got any ideas???

also any one found any good lb with some decent attacking stats and can at least kinda cross?

[Killer Kaa]

I'm hoping to post up some screenies of my ipswich season at the end.

I'm playing a 4-4-2 with quite a few loan players in the team. I am currently 3rd after 26 games with 45 points (5 points off top)

I am also really struggling with away games but have been pretty good at home all year. My best player so far is James Vaughan who I got on loan for the season from everton. With a bit of luck its prem football for my Town next year.

[Tie Fighter]

Glaring omission from the original post - Where is Lucho Civelli?! He's a very good player. In FM09, I played Tommy Smith regularly from day one and he became a real star. Hoping he'll do the same in FM10! You can also sign Sixto Peralta (although he's 30 now) for a little over 1M and he has an Italian passport.

[Unitedsi]

Hi all, just started a game with Ipswich and have undertaken a bit of a cull of players and staff (will give further details if anyoe is interested). Still in pre-season, I'm now looking to bring in some quality young players to push for the play offs and first I really need a quality DM/Anchorman. Don't want to spend above £1.5m and would prefer a British player - any ideas?

[Killer Kaa]

Hi all, just started a game with Ipswich and have undertaken a bit of a cull of players and staff (will give further details if anyoe is interested). Still in pre-season, I'm now looking to bring in some quality young players to push for the play offs and first I really need a quality DM/Anchorman. Don't want to spend above £1.5m and would prefer a British player - any ideas?

I played Alan Quinn there for the first half of the season. Later, Liam Trotter developed a bit and David Norris returned from injury so they all rotate. Have a look at Miles Addison. I brought him for 2.9m but he could be brough for quite a bit cheaper. He can play DC DMC or MC.

[Killer Kaa]

Just though I would post up some screenies of my season so far.

The Team:

The League:

I will post some more at the end of the season.

[truegaffer]

why was middlesboro deducted 10 points

[Killer Kaa]

why was middlesboro deducted 10 points

I think they went into administration. Strange thing is that they had a takeover about a week afterwards

[Prongsie92]

My bad on missing Civelli. Totally overlooked the winger when making my post but I've corrected that for future thread viewers.

4-5-1 I've played for a few games, normally at my AssMan's recommendation, and Trotter turned out quite well in that position. Alternatively, retraining Leadbitter would provide a player that can attack from that spot without having to go overboard on bringing a good DM in. Jack Cork may be available on loan, although I'm not too sure on that...

Finally completed my first season, getting the top spot and instantly getting bombarded with clubs offering me their players. I've adjusted my transfer budget to buy Tal Ben-Haim in preparation for the Premiership; epically as my defense's form dropped near the end of the season. Bought Rosenior fully mid-way, hopefully he'll do well for the next 2/3 seasons as I build up Ipswich. Looking to get a AMR, a new striker and a new goalkeeper. My scouts say that Joe Hart could come on loan so...fingers crossed. Might raid the relegated clubs for some bargains as well

End of season stats: Smolarek (28 goals), Priskin (20 goals) and Walters (11) on my goal charts. Lee Martin (17 assists), Carlos Edwards (12 assists) and William Kvist (10 assists) led my assist charts. Had a few youth players come through near the end of the season. Troy Brown played a few good'uns, Reggie Lambe done excellently (in my opinion) in both MC and FC roles (bagged 3 goals in 12 appearances) and Connor Wickham managed to net 2 in 7 appearances. Oddly enough, it seemed like my team were purposely passing to Lambe/Wickham when they were on the pitch. Has SI coded a feature that allows players to give their fellow teammates the chance to shine?!

Squad at the end of the 09/10 season.

League table at the end of the 09/10 season.

Transfers at the end of the 09/10 season.

[Killer Kaa]

^^^^^^^

Before I do my end of season review, I can't believe how you managed to get 98 points. Congratulations

My team were very inconsistant throughout the season. Are away record was absolutly terrible and it cost us in the season. My best player and top scorer was "James Vaughan" with 31 goals. Top assists was Carlos Edwards with 16 assists.

My team lost againtst Newcastle in the playoffs with them going on to get promoted. We lost 1-0 away and drew 1-1 at home.

The League:

Another year in the championship awaits.

[Owen Garven]

Season 09/10

Ipswich Town Football Club

10 League games in...

Following a few trial runs while I got use to the new set up, I have finally commenced my managerial career at Ipswich Town. Team needs a complete overhall with all positions in need of improvement. Not to much money so looking at a couple of one million pound signings and an influx of loanees. Hope to tie up a parent club, one of the big four as well. Below is a summary of my main actions. Hope you enjoy it, will update again after 25 league games.

Before the stats some thoughts on game play.

Use the Ast Man for team talks, use the in match team instructions, counter when in front and under pressure, defensive when 2 goals

or more in front and seeing a game out. attack if behind and chasing that goal, Hassle the opponents in the second half seems to work for me.

League Results

Played 10, Won 9, Drew 0, Lost 1, 27 Points,

Top of the league by 4 points from Derby

Best Results - 4-1 win away to Middlesbrough, 5-1 away to Doncaster

Biggest Result - 1-0 win home to Newcastle

Cup Results

Awaiting Fourth Round V Cardiff

League cup - Beat Aldershot, Leeds, Brighton

Player Stats

Goals - Viduka 6

Assists - Walters 9

Staff Departures

Tony Loughlan - Mutual

Steve Foley - Mututal

Chris Kiwomya - Mutual

Gerard Nash - Mutual

Simon Thadini - Mutual

Staff Arrivals

Bryan Klug moved to Ast Manager

Juan Pablo Crego - Coach

John Murtough - Coach

David Lowe - Coach

Luis Angel Pereira - Coach

Ted Davies - Scout

Player Departures

McAuley Gareth - Derby - 210k

Upson, Ed - Walsall - Loan

Brown, Troy - Walsall - Loan

Murray, Ronan - Walsall - Loan

Player Arrivals

Barazite, Nacer - Arsenal - Loan

Viduka, Mark - Free

De Laet, Ritchie - Man Utd - Loan

Rodriguez, James - Banfield - 1m

Smiljanic, Milan - Espanyol - 600k

Sigurosson, Ragnar - IFK Goteborg - 850k

Other Player News

Fallen out with Delaney, he may have to leave, Civelli still injured, looks like he will be a good addition on his return.

Arsenal installed as Parent Club, Walsall installed as Feeder Club

Formations alternate between custom designed 442 and a 451

442 Line Up

GK Wright

DR Rosenior

DL Wright

DC Sigurosson (Smith)

DC Bruce (De Laet)

MC Leadbitter (Smiljanic)

MC Rodriguez (Garvan)

AMR Edwards (Walters)

AML Martin (Barazite)

ST Priskin (Stead)

ST Viduka

451 Line up

GK Wright

DR Rosenior

DL Wright

DC Sigurosson (Smith)

DC Bruce (De Laet)

DMC Smiljanic

MC Rodriguez (Garvan)

MC Leadbitter

AMR Edwards (Walters)

AML Martin (Barazite)

ST Viduka (Priskin)

Training

Created Custom training one for each of the following positions

GK, Def, DefMid, Mid, MidAtt, Mid

Other

Ast Manager does team talks and Press

Future Thoughts

I see no future for the following players: Counago, Colback, Lee-Barrett, Quinn

I see a future for the following players: Rosenior, Civelli, Wickham, Smith

Future Purchases - Forward is a priority, as is a new Left Back and the permenant signing of Rosenior

[Owen Garven]

Season 09/10

Ipswich Town Football Club

30 League games in...

Asked board for more transfer funds and got an extra 2m

League Results

Not gone as well as the first 10, only won 10 of the next 20 games.

Played 30, Won 20, Drew 4, Lost 6, 64 Points,

West Brom in second on 60

Cup Results

FA Cup - Lost in fourth round to Everton 3-0

League cup - Lost in semi's to Spurs 4-3 on aggregate

Player Stats

Goals - Priskin 12

Assists - Edwards 12

Staff Departures

None

Staff Arrivals

None

Player Departures

Lee-Barrett, Arran - Free

Player Arrivals

Ridgers, Mark - Hearts - Loan

Murphy, Brian - Bohemians - Free

Helan, Jeremy - Man City - 250k

Acapandie, Vincent - AJ Auxerre - 425k

Luis Moran - Sporting - 325k

Other Player News

Delaney made up. Viduka out again this time for 3months

[Prongsie92]

@Killer: Thanks, not quite sure how I managed to achieve that. Touchline shouts must really do the trick... What role were you playing James Vaughan at? 31 goals is impressive (so impressive that I had to scout him and assess if he would slot into my side). Also: what players/positions did you find most inconsistent? Personally I've found strikers (that start at Ipswich) and the central defenders (that start at Ipswich) to be the worst for having a great game, then four dreadful ones.

@Owen: Nice signings! Shame about the cup runs (although the League is worth so much more...); do you think you'll need to boost your squad upon promotion to EPL or got a good foundation for survival?

I'll put a Half-Season update of 10/11 up later. Currently sat at 1st (no cheating!) 8:1:1. Lost to Chelsea in 3rd Round League Cup 2:1 and I'm about to enter November (which I'm referring to as "Death Month"), which features back-to-back runs against the Big 4. I'm not looking forward to that after a nice run of relatively easy games (West Ham, Burnley, Bristol City, Wolves etc).

I got Joe Hart (3.9m), Tal Ben-Haim (8m), Hugo Viana (3.1m) and Valeri Bojinov (4m) plus a few others I'll name later. All have been brilliant and worth the money; looking to get rid of some deadwood in the Jan transfer window plus a few loans to provide back up. I stupidly let all of my reserves go. Lesson learned the hard way.

[Owen Garven]

Finished 2nd won 25 drew 12 and lost 8. It would appear that the good start saw us through, it was tough.

So the Premiership, free transfers are the order of the day and Saha and Beckham join. Money signings are Gardner from Villa for 1.9m. Forsyth a GK from At Madrid for 1.8 and Koke for 1.2.

It is gonna be a long hard season , but I can't see anything but relegation, we are just not good enough.

Still unsure what are best tactics are...

[Proto Tarkula]

I'm in second season - now in Premiership. Is my team good enough to avoid relegation?

GK: Andrew Lonergan, Keiren Westwood, Brian Murphy, Scott Muggleton(I'm still playing my demo save)

DL: Damien Delaney, Tommy Spurr, Pim Balkestein, Jeremy Helan

DR: Lauren, Liam Rosenior, Gareth McAuley

DC: David Wheater, Craig Cathcart, Nicolas Otamendi, Pim Balkestein, Alex Bruce, Glauber, Marc Muniesa

MC: Ross Jenkins, Darron Gibson, Grant Leadbitter, William Kvist, Owen Garvan, Liam Trotter, Aron Gunnarson, Michael Woods

MR: Andy van der Meide, Nacer Barazite, Carlos Edwards, Chris Brunt

ML: Nacer Barazite, Chris Brunt, Andy van der Meide, Lee Martin

ST: Ebi Smolarek, Iker Muniain, Mark Viduka, Jonathan Cristaldo, Tamas Priskin, Jon Stead, Ettore Mendicino

Please help me.

[Jedzo]

Finished 3rd in first season, got promoted beating Peterborough 1-0 though

Got a few stunning signings, Vincent Enyeama from Real for £1.1M, Deco for free! and Michael Owen for £1.8M. Found myself in a bit of trouble though, 12 games - 2 points! Was on the verge of leaving but wanting to play the season out and keep them up! Might stay on if i do

Just an update

Cheers

P.s - Proto Tarkula; The team has got quality, Barazite, Wheater, Brunt, but I don't think that would be enough to stay up tbh, try looking for Owen and Deco as they are very cheap, try improving the centre midfield and striker area if you can (y) GL!

[Proto Tarkula]

Jedzo, is Makaay worth buying(free transfer)?

[Owen Garven]

Only just survived the first season in the premiership, team needs strengthing all round. Second season in Prem more money, more signings.

Johnson Man City 3.3m, Dembele AZ 7.75m, Layun Villarreal 3.3m, Collins Dundee Utd 1.8m, Sankoh AZ 2.8m

From the orignal squad, Smith, Garvan, Martin, Murphy, Civelli, Walters and Wickham only 1st team contenders - Need to replace majority to stay up

A new defence and forward line needed to survive

Still playing a 442

GK George Forsyth (A Great GK, sign if you can)

LB Miguel Layun

RB Craig Gardner

CB Gibril Sankoh

CB Ragnar Sigurosson

AMR Jonathan Walters

AML James Rodriguez

CM Michael Johnson

CM Owen Garven

ST Moussa Dembele

ST Luis Moran

Future purchases are a AMR, LB and ST

[Jedzo]

Jedzo, is Makaay worth buying(free transfer)?

i'd say he'e be alright for a season or 2 yeah

[Prongsie92]

Good to see people enjoying playing as Ipswich. If only they could get some of the signings in-game for real...ah well.

Finally got to Jan 2011. Sat at top of the table but my form has been really poor (1:0 wins at the best of times). In fact, a lot of the Premiership seems to be doing dreadful - lots of poor quality games and players having absolute stinkers. Hopefully it'll change with the Jan. Transfer Window.

Transferwise: looking at buying a new AMR and a new ST. May end up looking for a new CB and a backup GK (as Murphy is getting stressed by not playing games - Joe Hart is just too good at the moment). Most of the transfers have settled well, although I wish Bojinov would find his goalscoring abilities again. Currently my best three scorers are Lee Martins, Ebi Smolarek and Hugo Viana (quickly becoming a legend). Really need a consistent goalscorer now...

Tom Heaton and Connor Wickham have been having a good loan spell at Wednesday and I'm thinking they may have found their level there. Not too sure and I'll reassess at the end of the season. Fairly sure I'll sell Wickham though.

Richard Wright, Kevin Lisbie, Colin Healy, Damian Delaney and Alex Bruce are all on the transfer list and I'm hoping to flock them for a few million to get in some loanees.

Two new signings (David Hackett and Matteo Poziello) are definite "players for the future". Both regens, both 4 stars ("Potential to be important players for the team"). Hoping to get them blooded over the season.

Hopefully the second half of the season goes well.

[Jedzo]

Wow, you've been successful!

Well 2nd season has came and gone, and being rock-bottom at christmas with 2 points! i think i did well to survive

Beat Burnley on the last day to stay up by a single point. Got about £32M in the balance for staying up so i had money to consolidate the team.

Here's how i'm lining up (3rd season);

GK - Vincent Enyeama/Alphonse Areola

RB - Liam Rosenior/Andre Bikey

LB - Royston Drenthe/Mikel Balenziaga

CB - Kamil Zayatte/Andre Bikey

CB - Sotiris Kygriakos/Calum Davenport

CM - Christian Grinheim/Deco

CM - Owen Garvan/Grant Ledbitter

AMR - Vladmir Weiss/Lomana LuaLua

AML - Albert Riera/Royston Drenthe

AMC - Tomas Rosicky/Deco

ST - Jo/Mouassa Dembele

I'd be happy to finish mid-table. But staying up is the main thing.

Started ok, couple of good results, but some very poor.

8th. P7 W3 D0 L4 GD-6 PTS9

had to play Chelsea and Liverpool early on though so not too bad.

In League Cup 4th round, had Championship oppo all the way

How you guys think i'm doing?

cheers

[Proto Tarkula]

You are doing very well mate. I think you should start Bikey instead of Zayatte and maybe find better AMR(not sure about Weiss or LuaLua), maybe Barazite or Wilshere(if you can afford him). Please show Areola, I'm interested in his progress. And who is Grinheim?

[Jedzo]

Cheers

Mate, Zayatte's turned out to be one of the best defenders in the prem! Arsenal threw in an £8M offer but i rejected cos hes too good. I rotate alot of the defence but he's always the heart of it

Yeah, i spent too much time chasing other players, Weiss is a bit young and LuaLua's past it but they do a job, i'll buy a new one in January for sure.

I just bought Areols, got him for compensation! And i hear he's a -10 so i couldnt resist . But he's not looking too promising. Bad stats and only a rating of "has the potential to be a fairly good player". But i'll give him some training then see what happens.

(http://i976.photobucket.com/albums/ae249/jedzo96/AlphonseAreola.jpg)

Christian Grindheim, he's a Norweigan powerhouse from sv Heerenveen. He's a really good player, hes been ace for me. Look him up

Anyways, how are you getting on? Season? Line up?

Cheers

[Prongsie92]

Completely forgot to take screenshots at the end of the season and darted into the new one (11/12). Came 3rd in the end, had a really bad spell of results that allowed Man City and Arsenal to shoot above me. I was slightly disappointed (seeing as I was first...) but meh, I got enough money to upgrade the stadium and Youth Academy.

Sold Jon Walters (4.3m), Lee Martin (5.2m), Ebi Smolarek (4.8m), Alex Bruce (5m), Carlos Edwards (2.3m), Owen Garvan (6.8m), Connor Wickham (2.5m), Alan Quinn (750k) and de Costa (3.8m). Bought Jo (7.5m), Gennaro Galassi (10m), Beckham (free and hoping he becomes a coach), Michael Owen (free, same principle), Ivan Patic (6.7m), Roland Juhasz (12.somethingm), Demba Ba (14m) and Tom De Mul (3.7m).

Side looks relatively good, if not small. I also got Sol Campbell, Nicky Butt, Matt Hill and Jason Koumas for the reserves. I'm thinking of renaming my Reserve side "Ipswich Golden Oldies". Also due to so many golden oldies beginning to retire, I nabbed up Ryan Giggs as a coach (19 Technical + a few 15s) and signed Richard Wright soley as a GK Coach (4.5 stars in Goalkeeper training...I was impressed).

Season is going well, currently at 2nd at mid-September.

[jcdavies]

Completely forgot to take screenshots at the end of the season and darted into the new one (11/12). Came 3rd in the end, had a really bad spell of results that allowed Man City and Arsenal to shoot above me. I was slightly disappointed (seeing as I was first...) but meh, I got enough money to upgrade the stadium and Youth Academy.

Sold Jon Walters (4.3m), Lee Martin (5.2m), Ebi Smolarek (4.8m), Alex Bruce (5m), Carlos Edwards (2.3m), Owen Garvan (6.8m), Connor Wickham (2.5m), Alan Quinn (750k) and de Costa (3.8m). Bought Jo (7.5m), Gennaro Galassi (10m), Beckham (free and hoping he becomes a coach), Michael Owen (free, same principle), Ivan Patic (6.7m), Roland Juhasz (12.somethingm), Demba Ba (14m) and Tom De Mul (3.7m).

Side looks relatively good, if not small. I also got Sol Campbell, Nicky Butt, Matt Hill and Jason Koumas for the reserves. I'm thinking of renaming my Reserve side "Ipswich Golden Oldies". Also due to so many golden oldies beginning to retire, I nabbed up Ryan Giggs as a coach (19 Technical + a few 15s) and signed Richard Wright soley as a GK Coach (4.5 stars in Goalkeeper training...I was impressed).

Season is going well, currently at 2nd at mid-September.

wow thats stunning what formation are u using?

[Prongsie92]

4-2-4 with player instructions as listed in the opening post. Won with this squad:

--------------------------Hart---------------------------

--Rosenior----da Costa---Ben-Haim------Spurr--

--------------------Kvist-----Hugo Viana-------------

Edwards---------------------------------Martin/Reid

----------------Bojinov-------Walters----------------

11/12 season is going well. Stadium got upgraded, won some very lucky Champions League games and finally entered the final stages of the League Cup. Sitting 3rd with goal difference stopping me being 1st. Ba is sensational. Can't believe how well he's playing and how well he gets others into the play. 14 games, 14 goals, 5 assists. I think I'll be playing him for some time

[keepersam1]

My team is top at xmas and viduka is on fire,

sold counago and bruce signed a bit to many players and going strong on in the league just beat bristol3-0 even though that have macheda

my team is

---------------------------------Wright----------------------------------------

-----Rosienor-------olsoon------------------iban culaeraz----------------shorey(loan)

---------------------------Tinga--------------garvan--------------------------------

------Edwards------------------------------------------------------------Juan paulo caffa

---------------------------------Roberts-------Viduka------------------------------------

[Sammie B]

4-2-4 with player instructions as listed in the opening post. Won with this squad:

--------------------------Hart---------------------------

--Rosenior----da Costa---Ben-Haim------Spurr--

--------------------Kvist-----Hugo Viana-------------

Edwards---------------------------------Martin/Reid

----------------Bojinov-------Walters----------------

11/12 season is going well. Stadium got upgraded, won some very lucky Champions League games and finally entered the final stages of the League Cup. Sitting 3rd with goal difference stopping me being 1st. Ba is sensational. Can't believe how well he's playing and how well he gets others into the play. 14 games, 14 goals, 5 assists. I think I'll be playing him for some time

which players have support/attack/defend roles?

[Sammie B]

and whats strategys you use? control etc

[Prongsie92]

@Sammie_B: I was playing with a Counter Stategy and player/team instructions as listed in the first post. I've changed my player roles since that season (midway of 12/13 season and have gotten a new batch of players). Targetman has been replaced with a Complete Forward (to compliment Demba Ba's skills) and Trequartista has replaced Poacher (to compliment Wayne Rooney's skills). Still effective, if not more so.

--------------------------Goalkeeper---------------------------

--Wingback----Ball-Playing Defender---Limited Defender------Wingback--

--------------------Box-to-Box Midfielder-----Ball-Winning Midfielder-------------

Advanced Playmaker---------------------------------Advanced Playmaker

----------------Poacher-------Targetman----------------

[Gungner]

Hey guys... Just started a game with Ipswich and is nearing the end of August '09, but I really need a new striker as I only have Stead, Viduka and Tamas (the hungarian guy). I have £3 million to spend, but not a lot to spend on wages. Any suggestions are welcome

[Proto Tarkula]

Ebi Smolarek, Wilfried Niflore, Joe Garner.

[Gungner]

Smolarek went to Sheffield United. Will take a look on the other two

[Gungner]

Managed to sign Kikin Fonseca for £1 million...

[Sammie B]

@Sammie_B: I was playing with a Counter Stategy and player/team instructions as listed in the first post. I've changed my player roles since that season (midway of 12/13 season and have gotten a new batch of players). Targetman has been replaced with a Complete Forward (to compliment Demba Ba's skills) and Trequartista has replaced Poacher (to compliment Wayne Rooney's skills). Still effective, if not more so.

--------------------------Goalkeeper---------------------------

--Wingback----Ball-Playing Defender---Limited Defender------Wingback--

--------------------Box-to-Box Midfielder-----Ball-Winning Midfielder-------------

Advanced Playmaker---------------------------------Advanced Playmaker

----------------Poacher-------Targetman----------------

It doesnt actually say in first post what each player is set to only there roles so dont know what they are. for example the advanced playmakers support or attack?

[SWGF]

I got Ilan in from St Etienne along with Smolarek. Ilan got 25 goals in 36 games, Smolarek 15 in 34. Strengthened defence with Moraton and Ottesen as CBs and Insua on loan from Liverpool. Finished 1st in CCC with a mixture of the tactic highlighted here and my own creation with a sweeper, then 7th, 3rd and 4th in the Prem with a 532 formation which seemed to click with the players I had. Just won the Champions League with that tactic plus one that uses three anchor men to defend for our lives!

Can put more detail on here if anyone's interested?

Have been offered Liverpool, Spurs and Arsenal jobs but haven't taken them. Waiting for the Man U job which was given to the Mexican manager a year or so ago, for some reason. Now in summer 2013. Man City win the league year after year but I've profited from their spending by picking up their rejects!

[Gungner]

Just started my second season, got promoted via 2nd place after Newcastle.

Was given £17 million to spend on players, however I'm finding it hard to attract good players.

Has signed Sergio Almiron from Juve (free), Gavin McCann from Bolton (free) and Joe Hart from Man City (£2,3 million) so far. Still need a striker, a left back and a centre back...

Oh yeah, and my first game is against champions Chelsea at the Bridge.

[Gungner]

Managed to sign Jermaine Jenas from Tottenham for £5,5 million and Julian Faubert from West Ham for £1,9 million.... And became the new national coach for Nigeria... Dunno why I accepted that thb, hehe

[SWGF]

Can you get Jo on loan from Man City? He's good up front. I got Shorey and Silvestre to cover LB.

And Hart will be a decent signing.

[Gungner]

Hart is playing superbly, already beeing the fans favorite signing...