Ipswich Town has shared an exciting behind-the-scenes moment, revealing that pop sensation and minor shareholder Ed Sheeran was called in to assist with signing a new player just moments before he joined Taylor Swift on stage at Wembley Stadium. This surprising connection between the two events highlights Sheeran’s ongoing involvement with his beloved football club.
The British music icon, who has been a lifelong Ipswich Town supporter, made headlines in August when he acquired a small stake in the club. His investment came ahead of Ipswich’s highly anticipated return to the Premier League, marking their first time in the top flight of English football since 2002. Sheeran’s continued support for the club, both financially and personally, underscores his deep-rooted connection to Ipswich and his excitement for their return to top-tier football.
“In the summer, we were trying to persuade one particular player to join the football club and realized very quickly that he was an Ed Sheeran fan,” Ipswich CEO Mark Ashton said, speaking at a Soccerex industry event in Miami.
“Ed jumped on a Zoom call with him at the training ground just before he stepped on stage with Taylor Swift. Hopefully, that was a key part in getting the player across the line.”
Ashton didn’t disclose the player in question, saying only: “He’s certainly scoring a few goals.”
On August 15, Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift shared the stage together during a spectacular performance at Wembley Stadium. This memorable event occurred just one day before Ipswich Town secured the signing of Sammie Szmodics from Blackburn Rovers. Szmodics, who had been the top scorer in the English Championship the previous season, was a key addition to Ipswich as they aimed to strengthen their squad ahead of their Premier League return.
Szmodics wasted no time making an impact in his new role, and earlier this month, he scored a stunning overhead kick in Ipswich’s thrilling 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur. Following the match, Szmodics took to Instagram to share a special moment, posting a photo of himself alongside Ed Sheeran. The image, which captured the two figures together, further highlighted Sheeran’s involvement with the club and his close ties to Szmodics, adding an extra layer of excitement to the player’s already impressive debut.
“Overhead kick, win & a smudge with big Ed. Get in there,” Szmodics, the Ireland international, wrote.
Ed Sheeran is widely recognized as Ipswich Town’s most prominent supporter and has proudly served as the club’s shirt sponsor since 2021. As a minority shareholder, he enjoys special privileges, including access to an executive box at Ipswich’s Portman Road stadium. He is a familiar face on the ground, frequently attending matches to cheer on his beloved team.
Ipswich will face Manchester United on Sunday in a match that marks Rúben Amorim’s debut as United’s manager.
At the Soccerex event, Ipswich Town’s chief executive, Mark Ashton, couldn’t help but express his admiration for Ed Sheeran, highlighting the many roles the pop sensation now plays within the club. With a beaming smile, Ashton remarked, “He’s a local man, a global superstar, a sponsor of the football club, now a shareholder, and now officially a part of our recruitment team.” Ashton’s words reflected the significant impact Sheeran has had on the club, not just as a famous fan but as an integral part of Ipswich’s efforts to strengthen and grow, both on and off the pitch.
Sheeran’s involvement with Ipswich has evolved in recent years, from his initial role as the club’s shirt sponsor to now being a minority shareholder and an active participant in their recruitment process. His commitment to the club, rooted in his deep local ties and lifelong support for Ipswich, has clearly extended beyond his music career. As a member of the recruitment team, Sheeran’s influence is expected to play a pivotal role in the club’s efforts to bring in top talent and achieve their long-term goals, particularly with their recent return to the Premier League.
Ashton’s comments also underscored the unique relationship between Sheeran and the club, which continues to grow. The pop star’s passion for Ipswich and his desire to help the team succeed have made him a beloved figure among fans and a valuable asset to the club’s future aspirations. It’s clear that Sheeran’s connection to Ipswich goes far beyond his celebrity status, as he continues to play a hands-on role in shaping the club’s direction.
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