Mick McCarthy to leave Ipswich Town at the end of the season

Ipswich Town owner Marcus Evans met with McCarthy on Wednesday evening. Photo: Steve Waller (Image: � Copyright Stephen Waller)

McCarthy’s contract is due to expire at the end of the campaign but, after meeting owner Marcus Evans on Wednesday night the pair have agreed to part ways at the end of the campaign.

The Blues manager will see out his contract and remain in charge until the end of the campaign, while assistant Terry Connor will also depart at the end of the season.

“Mick and I had a discussion and we both agreed that this was the best way forward for him and for Ipswich Town,” Evans said.

“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.

McCarthy, pictured during his first game in charge of the Blues in November 2012. He is leaving after nearly six years in the job. (Image: PAGEPIX LTD 07976 935738)

“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.

“He has also been instrumental in developing our youth policy and has overseen the progress of a number of our young players from the Academy into the first-team and nurtured their development in line with the Club’s strategy.

“He’s immensely popular with all the staff at Portman Road and has built a strong backroom team who will provide important continuity as we move into a new era.

“On a personal note, I have enjoyed an excellent working relationship with him which is vital between owner and manager at any football club.

“Mick will see out his contract here and then we will look to make an announcement regarding his successor in due course.

“In the meantime, I want to put on record my sincere thanks to Mick for the job he has done here as our manager and urge supporters to get behind him and the players so that we can finish the season as strongly as possible.”

McCarthy insists he won’t be leaving with any regrets.

“I had a good discussion with Marcus and we feel this is the right thing to do for me and for Ipswich Town,” said McCarthy.

“I have loved my time here and I am proud of what I have achieved over the last six years - and the relationship I have enjoyed with the players and all the staff at the Club in that time.

“I won’t be leaving with any regrets. I have given everything for Ipswich Town and I will see out my contract in the same way.”