Paul Lambert has been given a vote of confidence by Ipswich owner Marcus Evans, despite the team’s relegation from the English Championship.

The Tractors Boys’ 17-year stint in the second tier came to an end with four games to spare in Saturday’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham City at Portman Road.

Former Scotland and Celtic midfielder Lambert was appointed as manager last October and despite a recent upturn in form and performances, the 49-year-old was unable to lead Town to safety.

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However, Evans, who handed Lambert a deal until summer 2021, is adamant the ex-Aston Villa and Norwich City boss is the man to lead the club straight back up to the Championship

He said: “Now my responsibility is to take this great club forwards again. Paul Lambert, as our manager, is obviously a key part of that plan and whilst results on the pitch have not been as we would have hoped for, performances and entertainment levels have vastly improved and most importantly as the manager has had time to work with the players, most of whom will be the core of next year’s team, we have recently been competitive with the best teams in the Championship.

"In Paul Lambert and his team, we have a group of excellent coaches who are completely invested in the strategy.

“I know Paul has been amazed and humbled as well by the backing he, personally, and the team have received from you the fans and he is determined to repay that support in the years ahead.

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“With Paul as our manager, we have the right man to take us forward. I will provide all the support I can to him but we need your continued fantastic support as well.”