Mick McCarthy to leave Ipswich at the end of the season

Ipswich Town have confirmed this morning that manager Mick McCarthy will leave the club when his current contract expires at the end of the season.

McCarthy was appointed Ipswich manager in 2012 following the dismissal of Paul Jewell and successfully guided the Tractor Boys to safety following a disappointing start to the season. The Irishman had his most successful season at Portman Road during the 2013-14 season when he guided the Suffolk club to the Championship play-offs, where they lost in heartbreaking fashion to bitter rivals Norwich City at the semi-final stage.

However, McCarthy’s Ipswich suffered a downturn in form last season finishing in 16th position and with the club currently sitting in mid table this season, Owner Marcus Evans has opted for a change.

In a statement on the club’s official website, Evans said, “Mick and I had a discussion and we both agreed that this was the best way forward for him and for Ipswich Town,” Marcus told the Club website.

“It never got to the point where we actually talked about a new contract. It just felt right that it was time for us both to look at different options.

“Mick has been a fantastic manager for this Football Club, ably supported by Terry who has also been invaluable in the development of the team.

“When Mick arrived, we looked to be on the way to relegation. He saved us from that and then took us to the Play-Offs within two years.

“In his six years here he has made us a very competitive club in what is a very competitive league. No one looks forward to playing Ipswich.”

Before taking up the managerial post at Ipswich, McCarthy had a six year spell in charge of Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he successfully guided the club to the Premier League in 2009.