Player of the Month -- January 2006: Alan Lee

Alan Lee’s capture from Cardiff reserves was inspirational work from Big Joe. At a time when many Town fans were beginning to feel like he’d lost the plot, the ingenious “fatty” struck a deal that shows he still knows what he’s on about. As if we ever questioned him anyway…. (cough, cough, eyes look down to the floor).

Lee was signed having scored just two goals for Cardiff this season, yet his capture has proved to be the missing link in Town’s make-up since long-term injuries to Foster and Parkin.

In the same way people were originally unexcited by Kuqi’s signing, Lee’s transfer has also bought a new and unexpected flare to the Ipswich Town front-line when it was needed the most.

His debut at home to Sheffield United was as impressive as the 1-1 draw itself, and his two goals in the magical 2-0 victory at St Mary’s were simply gorgeous.

Rated 10/10 by East Anglian Daily Times’ Derek Davis after his Southampton display, this guy has become an instant Town favorite and is more than worthy of being named Player of the Month.

All he needs now is a hat-trick at Carrow Road on Sunday and Cardiff will feel aggrieved at letting such a talented marksman go so cheaply.

February now begins with Town unbeaten in five – I naturally was never worried at any stage, were you?