That Ipswich Town team were fantastic.As a kid id marvel at John Wark,a central midfielder who plundered 34 goals in one season,in all competitions. Outstanding.
Brazil and Gates were exciting forwards who dovetailed off big Paul Mariner,the smaller players used to create mayhem with their excellent close control.The Double dutch signings were electric back in the day and their midfield creativity was backed up by a strong backline of George Burley,mick mills,Russell Osman and of course Terry Butcher.
The most under rated player within their ranks,was for me Kevin Beattie .what a player..a rolls royce of a centre half,powerful rugged but nimble and skilful enough to bring the ball out of defence smoothly or play a pin point 70 yard pass.He was a very very good player.If he and Colin Bell could have avoided their respective injuries,Englamd would have had the spine of a very good team.
Every time i see Kevin Beattie,s name...i think back to Villa Park 81 semi final.i wasnt there but listened on radio2....that towering header from a corner was so close to giving ipswich the lead..i shudder every time i watch the highlights of the match on u tube.
Beattie was a player.
