By Paul Holmes
October 28 2002

Ipswich Town have confirmed the appointment of Joe Royle as their first team manager. Royle was unveiled at a press conference on Monday by chairman David Sheepshanks, who gave the ex-Man City manager the task of taking The Tractor Boys back into the Premier League.

Upon his appointment Royle admitted he had rejected other managerial roles.

"I was approached by other clubs during my sabbatical but I saw this as a chance to do something," said Royle.

"It is a club with a great reputation for sportsmanship and a chance to be successful.

"I will approach the job in stages, getting away from the bottom, the play-off places and then who knows?"