Matt Holland’s has put what he has called a “nightmare couple of days” behind him now, and will again enjoy European Football this Season with his beloved Ipswich Town.
The Republic of Ireland international was at the centre of the Portman Road defence, in their 8-1 win over Swedish Avenir Beggin in the second-leg of the UEFA Cup qualifying tie. And with Ipswich’s impressive start to the Div I season, it looked likely that Mattie Holland would be the likely candidate to move back up to Top level level, what with the financial situation at the club with the loss of Premiership revenue.
But the Bury born Irish midfielder, (qualifies though grandmother to play for Republic of Ireland) and Tractor Boys captain considered all options available, with his family at the forefront of his final decision to remain at Ipswich, along with his love of the club. Holland now wish’s to get on with his football for both Ipswich town and the Republic of Ireland without anymore speculation about his future. Mattie also reflected on the forthcoming European campaign for Ireland:
"We are quite happy with the draw and after our showing in the World Cup, we have to be confident of getting to Portugal," says the Town skipper.
"For many of the players in the squad, playing in the World Cup was the first time we had been involved in a major tournament and now we have had a taste, we are all determined to get to the European Championship finals."
Final score (agg.) Ipswich 9 – 1 A. Beggin
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