Ipswich Town has strengthened their offensive line for the upcoming season, which begins with a home game against Liverpool, by signing Sammie Szmodics, a striker from the Republic of Ireland. Szmodics, previously with Blackburn, was contracted for an initial fee of £9 million (€11 million) for four years.
Szmodics, who netted 33 goals for Rovers last season, expressed his excitement about the new challenge of the Premier League in an interview with TownTV. “Ever since I was a child, the interest has been there, but this time it feels right,” the 28-year-old said. He added that it was his lifelong dream to play in the Premier League, and he had always believed he would reach this level, a sentiment shared with his family, friends, and agents.
“I cannot think of anything I want more than scoring a goal for Ipswich Town at Portman Road,” Szmodics continued. “I am thrilled to be part of this team and eagerly anticipate the upcoming season.”
Sammie Szmodics of Ireland moves to Ipswich, who are recent promotees, just as the new season is about to kick off.
In other news, Cork City, currently on top form, looks forward to potentially crafting a surprise win in the cup. Shamrock Rovers managed to defeat Celje in overtime, securing their spot in the European group stage and netting €4m in prize money. Additionally, St Patrick’s Athletic advanced to the Conference League playoff round following a triumph in Azerbaijan.
Following discussions with his former Blackburn colleague Lewis Travis, who was on loan to Portman Road last year, Szmodics joined Ipswich. He was full of praise for Ipswich’s new manager, Kieran McKenna. “His coming onboard brings us a forward player of great versatility, capable of adapting to varying roles and tactics, providing a significant goal-scoring threat and enhancing the overall team in many respects,” said McKenna about Szmodics’s arrival.