Ipswich Town were relegated to the third tier of English tier for the first time in 62 years and could lose a number of players on free transfers.
Ipswich Town Could Lose These Four Players for Free This Month
Expiring Contracts
After relegation was confirmed a number of weeks ago, Town boss Paul Lambert has begun preparing for life in the third tier.
The former Norwich City boss has already handed a number of academy graduates professional contracts; however, the Scotsman may let a number of contracted Town players depart Portman Road.
Ipswich Town have until Sunday 19th May to declare their retained list, but who could Town potentially lose for free?
Jonas Knudsen
The Dane, more commonly known for his specialised long throw-in, expressed his desire to leave earlier this term.
Knudsen, 26, has made 29 appearances this term; however, the defender has dropped down in Town fan’s estimations following his declaration at wanting to leave.
Having been linked to Middlesbrough and Stoke City, Town may rue not cashing-in on the full-back in January. It is now likely that the six-time capped Danish international is likely to leave on a free.
James Collins
The 35-year-old former West Ham man has impressed when fit; however, the experienced defender’s injuries have led to him become an unreliable fixture in defence.
Collins has made just six appearances since signing in January, with hamstring and then calf injuries limiting his opportunities, but has been a stronghold in the Town defence when playing.
When asked about whether the Welshman would be open to playing for Ipswich Town in League One, Collins said: “If I’m lucky enough that someone still wants me at 37, 38, I’ll come out and give my all in every game and every training session.”
Jordan Spence
The defender has failed to appear for Ipswich since the FA Cup loss at Accrington Stanley. Having made just 17 appearances in the League, Spence has fallen well down the pecking order.
The 28-year-old impressed during his early years with Ipswich; however, the former West Ham defender will need to look for a new club with his time in Suffolk seemingly coming to an end.
Dean Gerken
With many third-division sides opting for one permanent goalkeeper and a youth player as back-up, Gerken could find his opportunities limited.
The 33-year-old’s future is in the hands of Town, who have the option of extending his contract by 12 months to 2020, but the former Colchester United shot-stopper may prefer a move away over keeping the substitutes’ bench warm.
Simon Dawkins
Another player almost certain to leave Portman Road is Dawkins. Since arriving in January, the 31-year-old has featured in just 34 minutes of football.
The Jamaican has struggled to break into the first team behind Alan Judge, Teddy Bishop and Flynn Downes.
Speaking about the 31-year-old’s future, Lambert said: “There are probably one or two in front of Simon at this minute. I’m not sure he’s done enough to force my hand.”
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