Ipswich supporters give a thumbs-up for the signing of Lee Bowyer
This time last week, Lee Bowyer became Town’s fifth signing of the summer – so what do the fans think of his arrival?
It is no secret that midfielder Bowyer has courted his fair share of controversy over the years. Suspended for a positive drugs test during his days at Charlton Athletic and later cleared of criminal charges following an incident at a Leeds nightclub in 2000, the 34-year-old has struggled with a negative reputation over the years, not helped by some of his antics on the field. The former Newcastle man was infamously involved in a fight with his own team mate Kieron Dyer during a Premier League match against Aston Villa in 2005, and his career has been littered with yellow and red cards.
Away from the controversy however, Bowyer has enjoyed a long and successful career as a top flight footballer. Nearly 600 appearances for the likes of Leeds United, Newcastle United, West Ham and Birmingham City have seen him play in the Champions League, UEFA Cup and last season’s League Cup final as well as the Premier League. With almost 100 goals to his name as well, the midfielder undoubtedly has a great deal of experience to offer his new club.
So, are Ipswich fans happy with the signing of Lee Bowyer? Here’s how you voted in this week’s poll:
80% – Yes
12% – No
8% – Not sure yet
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Considering that there was much debate over Bowyer’s history and character ahead of his arrival at Portman Road, Vital Ipswich readers seem overwhelmingly in support of the signing. Four fifths of those polled approved of his acquisition with only 12% against, suggesting that Blues fans are impressed by the signing and more than willing to give Bowyer a chance to prove himself.
Indeed, the result somewhat echoes the opinion of former Town striker Alex Mathie, who this week said that he felt Bowyer could be a big hit at Portman Road.
‘Yes he’s got a little bit of a temperament issue,’ Mathie told BBC Radio Suffolk. ‘But I think he’s a fabulous player and a good signing for Ipswich.’
‘I think he’s calmed down a lot now and I think he’s matured, I really do think he’ll be a good signing.’
This week’s poll: ‘Which area of the Ipswich squad still needs the most investment this summer?’ (See right-hand column to view the list and place your vote)
How do you feel about the signing of Lee Bowyer? Does his past concern you, or do you think he will be a good signing? Share your views using the comment box below.
You can also have your say on this topic on our club forums – just click the banner below to register an account with Vital Ipswich:
