By Aston
November 19 2004

Ipswich Town midfielder Jim Magilton has welcomed the news that Joe Royle has been offered a two year contract extension.

Jim Welcomes Royle News

Ipswich Town midfielder Jim Magilton has welcomed the news that Joe Royle has been offered a two year contract extension.

The 35 year old midfielder may not be here to see the end of Royle’s management career but he welcomes the news all the same, saying: “It is fantastic news that Joe has this two-year deal. What it does is bring added stability, and we all know where we stand regarding the manager, whose contract was due to expire in the summer.

“He has done a fantastic job, along with Willie Donachie, and them deciding to stay will be a huge boost to all the lads. I'm sure I speak for the whole dressing room when I say he is hugely popular with the players.

“We know exactly where we stand with him. We know when he is upset with us and we know when he is chilled out.

“I had four years with George Burley, which were great at first. But he had offered me as a free transfer, and other things had overtaken the football, and we had come to the end really.

“Then Joe came in and gave us all a fresh start. When Matty (Holland) left, I was offered the armband and that meant so much to me.

“From then on, things have gone on and on. I really enjoy working with the man and you can see the results.

“He is not afraid to blend young and old and bring about changes. He has brought in good players and he has given youngsters a chance.

“He really has shown if you are good enough, you are old enough and young enough.”

Source: EADT.

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