Ed Sheeran has been named in the official squad list for Ipswich Town for the 2021-2022 season, receiving the number 17 shirt. The singer, a lifelong fan of the club from Suffolk, already sponsors the shirts of both the men's and women's first teams.
The chart-topping artist expressed surprise at the offer, saying: 'When Ipswich told me I thought they were joking but I love the idea. I think this is going be a great season and I'm honoured to be a part of it. I just hope this squad number is only ceremonial because I want to see us promoted and that's not going to happen if I'm playing.'
Ipswich Town chief executive Mark Ashton explained the decision: 'We saw him wearing the number 17 when he performed his live-streamed concert at Portman Road in June, so manager Paul Cook and I spoke about it and we agreed to offer Ed the chance of that squad number. It's our way of thanking him for his support.'
The Tractor Boys begin their third consecutive season in League One on Saturday against Morecambe. Sheeran, who hails from Framlingham, performed a no-audience gig at the club's ground earlier this year.
