‘Every game I could hear…’ – Ipswich player discusses his affection for Town fans

Ipswich Town loan player Jeremy Sarmiento says he’s enjoyed being serenaded by Town fans, and it’s nice to repay them with promotion to the Premier League.

The skilled 21-year-old winger joined the club on loan from Premier League Brighton in January and instantly became popular with Blues fans.

He concluded the season with four goals in 22 appearances across all competitions and some memorable moments, the most notable of which was a late-game winner against promotion rivals Southampton on Easter Monday.

Speaking to Radio Suffolk, he exclaimed, “I’m overjoyed to complete the season here.

“From the first day I came here, Ipswich was a family and the fans showed me so much love – so to repay them with this is amazing.”

Since his arrival, the Ecuadorian international’s name has been heard frequently from the stands, with a song proclaiming his magic being among the most popular sung by the Blue Army.

He went on to say, “The fans have been extremely welcoming to me since the day I arrived.

“After the first couple of games, when I equalised away at Leicester, it was just crazy – every game, I could hear my name in the stands, which was fantastic.

“I’ve liked it a lot.”

Sarmiento had the opportunity to meet many of those fans when promotion was confirmed, as hundreds flooded the ground at Portman Road to celebrate with their heroes.

“It was crazy, everyone just running – they took my boots!” he remembered. “That was crazy.

“It’s an incredible sensation to be standing there and watching that atmosphere, with everyone on the pitch. We do it for you, so it’s a fitting way to close the season.”

Regarding his own development at the Blues, he stated: “I’ve been training hard on and off the pitch to be ready for these moments, even if they come off the bench.

“I am always going to give my all for this club, and that is exactly what I have done. these is what football is all about; moments like these will stay with you for the rest of your life.”

Sarmiento, like every other player at the club, credited manager Kieran McKenna for helping him progress.

“100%,” he said when asked if he thought he was a better player now than when he arrived.

“I’ve come here, and the coach has given me the opportunity to help the squad, and whether as a starter or a substitute, I’ve always tried to show what I can do on the field.

“During training sessions I’ve always given my best and he’s helped me a lot, so I want to thank him and the lads as well.”