Nigel Reo-Coker can kick on at Ipswich Town - Ainsworth

Nigel Reo-Coker's former Wimbledon team-mate Gareth Ainsworth says joining Ipswich Town could prove to be a smart career decision for the midfielder.

The 28-year-old has dropped down to the Championship after seven years in the Premier League.

"I really think Nigel could kick on," Ainsworth told BBC Radio Suffolk.

"If anything this might tell Nigel he might have to go back and work even harder than he is now. I'm sure he'll do that at Ipswich."

Reo-Coker failed to find a Premier League club following his release by Bolton in the summer.

He has settled for a three-month deal at Ipswich and former QPR winger Ainsworth, now caretaker boss at Wycombe, believes the former England Under-21 international can help lift Town out of the Championship relegation zone.

"Without a doubt. He'll bring some kudos to Ipswich. It's no mean feat getting Nigel," he said.

"He can galvanise the midfield and can play either full-back as well.

"He can be a real leader. His determination and his drive can be infectious on other players and that might be what Ipswich have been lacking this year."

But 39-year-old Ainsworth admits he did not expect a player who has 257 top-flight appearances to his name to have to drop down a division to find a club.

"I was a bit surprised he wasn't anywhere else earlier. Having played with him and watched him throughout his career I know what he can give to a team," he said.

"I think there's a place for Nigel in certain Premier League teams. His work ethic is second to none. I still believe there's room for the hard grafters in midfield, the ball winners. He'll turn a few heads in the Championship."