Mick McCarthy to leave role as Ipswich Town manager at end of the season

McCarthy has spent six years at Ipswich but will move after a disappointing season

McCarthy saved Ipswich from relegation but has had a disappointing season (Getty)

Mick McCarthy will leave Ipswich Town at the end of the season by mutual consent after both parties believed it was time to look at “different options”.

The former Ireland boss saved Town from relegation trouble and took them to the Championship playoffs but will move onto new pastures after a disappointing campaign.

Evans and McCarthy met on Wednesday evening for discussions before announcing the move on Thursday morning.

“I had a good discussion with Marcus and we feel this is the right thing to do for me and for Ipswich Town,” said McCarthy. “I have loved my time here and I am proud of what I have achieved over the last six years - and the relationship I have enjoyed with the players and all the staff at the Club in that time.

“I won’t be leaving with any regrets. I have given everything for Ipswich Town and I will see out my contract in the same way.”

Club owner Marcus Evans said: “Mick and I had a discussion and we both agreed that this was the best way forward for him and for Ipswich Town. It never got to the point where we actually talked about a new contract. It just felt right that it was time for us both to look at different options.

“Mick has been a fantastic manager for this football club, ably supported by Terry who has also been invaluable in the development of the team.

“When Mick arrived, we looked to be on the way to relegation. He saved us from that and then took us to the Play-Offs within two years. In his six years here he has made us a very competitive club in what is a very competitive league. No one looks forward to playing Ipswich.

“Mick will see out his contract here and then we will look to make an announcement regarding his successor in due course.

“In the meantime, I want to put on record my sincere thanks to Mick for the job he has done here as our manager and urge supporters to get behind him and the players so that we can finish the season as strongly as possible.”