Ipswich Town manager Paul Lambert leaves club by mutual consent

Ipswich Town have confirmed the departure of manager Paul Lambert by mutual consent.

Pressure has been growing over recent months on the Scot, who took charge at Portman Road in October 2018.

And the uncertainty surrounding his position intensified further on Friday following reports that owner Marcus Evans was close to selling the club to an American consortium, with former Wigan Athletic boss Paul Cook said to be lined up to step in.

Discussions are known to have taken place between Evans and Lambert earlier this week and while the latter remained in charge for yesterday's 2-1 home win over Doncaster Rovers, the differences between the pair have now resulted in a parting of the ways.

Evans said in a statement: “I would like to put on record my sincere thanks to Paul and Stuart (Taylor, assistant) for their services to Ipswich Town over the last two and half years.

“I have enjoyed a healthy working relationship with Paul in our time together and he has brought a lot of positive aspects to the club.

“I know he has his thoughts on what is needed to take Ipswich Town forward and I respect his opinions but this year has – with the pandemic and no real income for the club – been the biggest financial challenge we have faced in my time as owner.

“It has, however, become clear after holding discussions over the last few days that there are significant differences of opinion as to the order of immediate priorities and we agreed it was best for us to part company. I would like to wish both Paul and Stuart the best in the future.”

After back-to-back victories against top six opposition, Lambert leaves Ipswich eighth in the League One table, top points adrift of the play-off places.

It remains to be seen who will take control of the team for Tuesday's trip to Accrington Stanley (7pm).

Read more: All the latest Ipswich Town FC news