Ipswich Town: The Modern Era 1971-2006

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 Englands call coincided with a rapid decline in fortunes. Eventually Towns directors took a chance on the young and unemployed Bobby Robson. The enthusiastic Geordie repaid their faith and patience by winning the FA 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. By the start of the 21st century Town were once again back in Europe and winning friends for their stylish football, under the leadership of former long-serving player George Burley. Since then, the Joe Royle era has come and gone and now a youthful and untried manager in Jim Magilton is attempting to restore former glories. This book examines in encyclopaedic detail the last 35 years of a unique and fascinating football club.