B B C Sports Ipswich Town: Kieran McKenna confirms Janoi Donacien departure.

Kieran McKenna has verified that Janoi Donacien officially left Ipswich Town yesterday as he prepares to join League Two side Chesterfield. The versatile defender joined the Blues in 2018, originally on loan from Accrington Stanley before making the transfer permanent. After a difficult stint in Suffolk, he played a vital role in the team’s promotion from League One, becoming a favourite among both players and fans. Despite being discharged at the end of last season, the 31-year-old stayed at Town to develop fitness. He is now on the verge of joining League Two side Chesterfield, who is headed by former Ipswich manager Paul Cook. “Janoi said his goodbyes in here yesterday, to the group and to the staff,” McKenna told me.

“It was very emotional, since he’s a wonderful person. Everyone here and his supporters adore him.He’s a fantastic narrative at the club; he encapsulates the highs and lows of joining and then having a really difficult first season. The perseverance he demonstrated then, during the more tough times at the club, by going out on loan twice but returning and giving his all. “To complete full circle and rejoin the team on a regular basis prior to my arrival. Then, of course, he played in my first game and played a significant role in our promotion from League One.

“He played a significant role in the squad last year and started the season very well at right back. Then he suffered injuries last season and was unable to play as much as we would have liked, but he played an important role behind the scenes. “He’s just a terrific guy with a positive attitude and a great vibe all the time. He was a standout in the locker room and, like many others in that group, etched his name into the club’s history. “He had his operation in the summer, which luckily resolved the condition that caused him to miss the previous season. He has been in a really excellent situation health-wise this season and has trained with us for the last few months.

“Apart from one or two little minor side issues, his fitness has been great and he’s looked good in training. He’s just really keen to go out and get some games now.

“I think he’s going to do that at Chesterfield, I believe that’s close to completion.

“He’ll be sorely missed around the building, but he also leaves with great fondness, great memories, having had a big part to play in the club. I know for a fact that, like so many others in the group that he’s been with, he’ll always be welcome at the club in the years to come.”

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