Paul Lambert: Ipswich Town manager leaves by 'mutual consent'

Ipswich won their last two games under Lambert including a 2-1 victory against Doncaster Rovers on Saturday

Paul Lambert has left his role as Ipswich Town boss over "significant differences of opinion" with owner Marcus Evans, with ex-Wigan boss Paul Cook in advanced talks to replace him.

No agreement has been reached but Cook, 54, is keen on the role.

Lambert, 51, who took charge of the club in October 2018, leaves them in eighth place in League One, two points off the play-off places.

Ipswich have won their past two matches.

"I know he has his thoughts on what is needed to take Ipswich forward and I respect his opinions," Evans said on Lambert's departure.

"It has, however, become clear after holding discussions over the last few days that there are significant differences of opinion as to the order of immediate priorities and we agreed it was best for us to part company."

Assistant boss Stuart Taylor has also left the Tractor Boys.

Speaking on Saturday, Lambert said he was "99%" sure he would be replaced if a rumoured takeover of the League One side went through.

Lambert had coronavirus over Christmas - part of an outbreak at the Suffolk club - and said he was "not too far from going into hospital".

Cook left Wigan in August 2020 after three years in charge having led the Latics to promotion back to the Championship in his first season.

But they went into administration in July and were relegated to League One after a 12-point deduction.