Royle looking for another job

Last updated : 22 May 2006 By Russell Claydon
'Big Joe' not ready for retirement yet
The last English manager to win the FA Cup, back in 1995, had written in his autobiograpy that his management role in Suffolk would be his last job in the came but he has now contradicted that statement by saying that he is not ready to don his slippers just yet.

Speaking to the Ipswich Evening Star, in his first interview since leaving Ipswich by mutal conscent, Royle said: I have already had three enquiries and if the right club came to me I would be happy to go back into management.

“It would be one in the Premiership, or one with the potential to do so."

He sees his time at Portman Road as a success and thinks the new manager will have plenty of talent to work with: "It was sad to leave Ipswich, and I am proud of what I achieved.

“To reach the play-offs two years running despite a dwindling financial position was quite a feat.

“And in the circumstances to comfortably avoid relegation from the Championship last season was just as big an achievement.

Owen Garvan and Shane Supple are wonderful prospects and there is plenty of promise still at the academy.

“With a fully-fit squad, the new manager will have players who can make an impact next season," he said.

Royle added that he did indeed leave on the amicable terms reported and still held an affinity for the club, "There was no animosity in my departure and I wish Ipswich well and will follow their results with a keen interest and come and watch them during next season.”

Royle's spell as Town manager lasted three and a half years and the next Town manager will become only the 12th full time manager in the clubs history.