Former Town striker Marcus Stewart has been released by Championship title winners Sunderland. Stewart joined the Black Cats from the Blues for an undisclosed fee in the summer of 2002.

Sunderland boss Mick McCarthy says the former Huddersfield and Bristol Rovers frontman is not too unhappy at missing out on a second spell in the Premiership: "He's comfortable with it and looking forward to a fresh challenge.

"He's been terrific for the club and has had a brilliant season. He went through a goal drought but was still our best player by a mile."

Bristol City, the club Stewart supported as a boy, and Hull City have already been linked with the 32-year-old.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls