Chart-topping singer Ed Sheeran, one of Ipswich Town’s most famous fans, had to cut his visit to the club’s Premier League opener against Liverpool short—much to the disappointment of his fellow Tractor Boys.
The “Shape of You” singer, who also happens to have a stake in the club, was buzzing to witness Ipswich’s long-awaited return to the Premier League.
The newly promoted side team made it back to the top flight after being out for 22 years.
Ed Sheeran even got into the spirit of things by handing out pies to fans before kickoff—probably hoping to sneak a bite himself.
As it turned out, Sheeran missed Ipswich’s full performance, which ended in a 2-0 loss to Liverpool, thanks to goals from Mohammed Salah and Diogo Jota.
The match also saw Salah who was included in the lineup as expected provide an assist.
Not exactly the fairytale start the fans were hoping for, but they still have a long way to go.
Why did Ed Sheeran leave the match early?
In an interview with TNT Sports before the game, the music star said,
“I have to leave here at half-time because I’m playing in Serbia tonight. We almost couldn’t even come to the game but we had to.
“I’m really excited. Driving through town and seeing lots of people in Liverpool shirts and remembering that we’re in the Prem.”
Speaking more in detail about his involvement with the club, he said,
“I started sponsoring them in League One and that carried on into the Championship. When it got to the Premier League, obviously the price of sponsorship is crazy. I said I’d do one season in the Prem and then Mark (Ashton) basically invited me to invest as a natural progression from being a sponsor.
“I’m not signing players, it’s more of just a gesture but it feels nice to involved in the club.”
Sheeran’s passion for the club and his willingness to invest in its success have helped to create a positive atmosphere around Portman Road.
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