Arran Lee-Barrett
Arran Lee-Barrett is the answer to Ipswich Town’s goalkeeping problems says David Stockdale
By Dave Gooderham
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
12:26 PM
DAVID Stockdale has told Paul Jewell that the answer to his goalkeeping conundrum is already in his first-team squad.
As the search for a new keeper intensifies, the former Blues loanee believes Arran Lee-Barrett has all the attributes to silence the doubters and be Town’s No.1 next season.
Stockdale insisted: “I’m not the manager, but for me, the answer is already in the Ipswich Town squad.
“Arran is a great keeper. He came in last season and did very well. I hope he gets the chance to show everyone he can do it season-in, season-out. He certainly deserves it as he works so hard.”
While Lee-Barrett has the backing of his former goalkeeping rival at Portman Road, the 28-year-old still has to convince Jewell of his worth.
Last season was his most successful at his home-town club, but the manager never seemed truly convinced, turning to Stockdale, fellow loanee Alex McCarthy and, on one occasion, Richard Wright.
Lee-Barrett is currently the only goalkeeper on the books with Jewell admitting at the end of last season that bringing in a new No.1 was a top priority.
Predictably at this time of year, the club have been linked with a string of custodians including Tomasz Kuszczak, Brad Guzan, Colin Doyle and, more recently, Paddy Kenny.
Watford stopper Scott Loach, an Ipswich fan, is also believed to be on Jewell’s list of possible targets and we understand an enquiry has been made, despite reports to the contrary from the Hornets end.
And Stockdale, who believes Loach would be a “great addition” to the Town squad, has not ruled out returning himself to Portman Road should Jewell dip into to the loan market.
The Fulham keeper, who made 18 starts for Town at the start of last season before being recalled, added: “I loved my time at Ipswich and got a great reception.
“I am focusing on becoming Fulham’s No.1, but if that didn’t happen I would certainly consider any offer from Ipswich.
“Whether it will happen or not is another thing, but you never-say-never.”
More Ipswich Town news
- Ipswich Town renew their interest in keeper Lee Camp
- Alan Judge set to sign for Blackburn
- Ipswich Town chief scout Dave Bowman talks budgets and blueprints ahead of what could be a busy transfer window
- Marcus Evans’ salary cap plans scuppered as the Premier League once again flexes its muscles
- Ipswich Town’s pursuit of Jay Tabb hits snag as Skuse signs
- U’s to take on Town in friendly
- Cole Skuse agrees three-year deal at Ipswich Town
- Ipswich Town fans are ready to ride the rollercoaster again
- IPSWICH TOWN: Blackpool example is a good one to follow
- Could performance-related pay at Ipswich Town be the future?
ADVERTISEMENT
7 comments
Of course he would say that knowing if any future offer of a contract with ITFC was made he would face less stiff opposition from ALB than, say, Joe hart if he was the Town keeper.Meanwhile he can continue to focus on becoming Fulham's No.1 and PJ can search fo a keeper who wants to play for ITFC as his first choice.
Report this comment
Brian Betts
Friday, June 8, 2012
How can we have just one goalkeeper? It is absolutely ridiculous, and further evidence of the ineptness of the three men at the top. To make it even worse, Jewell has constantly treated that one GK poorly, and made it clear that he doesn't rate him!
Report this comment
Kevin Bailey
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Yes Brian, we do need back-up and someone who would compete with ALB for the number one shirt. I just think that if Arran was given a sustained period as number one, he would rise to the challenge that's all.
Report this comment
FRANK WESTON
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Frank, and who would take over if ALB got injured ?
Report this comment
Brian Betts
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Personally I have always rated him highly and I think a sustained spell as number one would do him and Town the World of good!
Report this comment
FRANK WESTON
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Now here Rob you're talking a modicum of sense for once in a while - keep up the good work lad.
Report this comment
Richard Gardiner
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Not entirely true. The answer is to get a manager who recognises the importance of having a goalie and a settled defence - most of Town's problems come from having a manager who cannot see the wood for the trees. It is not rocket science.
Report this comment
Rob Steroo
Wednesday, June 6, 2012