Ipswich Town are ready to divert their full attention towards appointing Paul Hurst after missing out on Jack Ross, TWTD reports.

Sunderland appear to have beaten Ipswich to the appointment of St Mirren manager Ross with an announcement expected imminently.

Ipswich were hoping to appoint either Ross or Hurst and they will now focus on the Shrewsbury Town manager instead.

Hurst was initially the top choice to replace Mick McCarthy at Ipswich after the experienced manager walked away from the role after six years with the club.

But Ross impressed owner Marcus Evans during his interviews and that made him the leading candidate for the role.

But with the PFA Scotland Manager of the Year set to move to League One bound Sunderland after leading St Mirren to the Scottish Championship title, Ipswich have been forced to chase Hurst again.

The Shrewsbury manager is currently preparing for his side's play-off final clash against Rotherham United at Wembley on Sunday with the winner earning a place in next year's Championship campaign.

But the Tractor Boys want to poach Hurst, regardless of which division Shrewsbury are playing their football in next year.

The 43-year-old is set for talks with Ipswich after Sunday's match after impressing by keeping Shrewsbury up in his first year in the job before guiding them to a third place finish this term.

The Verdict

Hurst is a promising, young manager who has earned himself a fine reputation so far.

It is an intriguing time for Ipswich because the platform has been laid perfectly by McCarthy for a promotion push next season if they appoint the right manager, but if they get it wrong, a relegation battle could become a reality.

If Shrewsbury go up, I believe Hurst should stay at the club but a move to Ipswich would be too tempting if they lose to Rotherham.

Ipswich fans - Would you like to appoint Hurst? Let us know below...