Former Bristol Rovers transfer target becomes available after release from Ipswich

Former Bristol Rovers transfer target James Norwood is available on a free transfer after his release from Ipswich Town.

Norwood’s three-year spell in Suffolk was brought to an end after the club opted not to extend his contract as manager Ken McKenna stamps down his authority on the squad.

There was an option to extend his stay at Portman Road by a further year but they opted to pass on that option, releasing him alongside the likes of Tomos Holy and former Swansea City midfielder Tom Carroll.

“It was an honour every time I pulled on the shirt,” said Norwood before his impending departure.

“I tried to give my all every game and I hope you understood for the lack of ability I have tried to work my hardest. I leave, averaging a goal every 180 minutes. I came here to score goals and I feel I have done that so I can leave with my head held high.”

Norwood played 23 times for Ipswich this season and scored six goals whilst also assisting his teammates three times. In the three years he accumulated at Ipswich he scored 26 goals in total in 77 appearances.

The 31-year-old was transfer listed by Ipswich back in November under previous manager Paul Cook but was able to force his way back into first-team plans.

He had previously been a reported target for Joey Barton at Fleetwood Town and that interest continued when he was appointed as manager of Rovers.

There have been links to Championship sides Preston North End and Wigan Athletic, whilst Portsmouth and Oxford United of League One are also reportedly keeping tabs.

He is the second former transfer target in as many days to be released by their club following the conclusion of the league season for third tier teams.

Midfielder Callum Camps, who was linked with a move to the Memorial Stadium in January, was released by Fleetwood Town, Barton’s former club.

Contract talks will be on hold for the time being at Bristol Rovers though with all attention on their remaining League Two match against Scunthorpe United.

A win along with dropped points for Northampton Town would see the Gas promoted at the first time of asking, whilst other outcomes would see them have to take the play-off route.

Should they be promoted then they would become a more attractive proposition for potential new players whilst if they remained in the fourth tier, it could be a case of another rebuilding job.

They also have their own contracts to finalise with the likes of Antony Evans, Sam Nicholson, Trevor Clarke and Glenn Whelan out of contract in the summer.