91Èȱ¬

Nigel Reo-Coker's former Wimbledon team-mate Gareth Ainsworth says joining Ipswich Town could prove to be a smart career decision for the midfielder.

The 28-year-old has dropped down to the Championship after seven years in the Premier League.

"I really think Nigel could kick on," Ainsworth told 91Èȱ¬ Radio Suffolk.

"If anything this might tell Nigel he might have to go back and work even harder than he is now. I'm sure he'll do that at Ipswich."

Reo-Coker failed to find a Premier League club following his release by Bolton in the summer.

He has settled for a three-month deal at Ipswich and former QPR winger Ainsworth, now caretaker boss at Wycombe, believes the former England Under-21 international can help lift Town out of the Championship relegation zone.

"Without a doubt. He'll bring some kudos to Ipswich. It's no mean feat getting Nigel," he said.

"He can galvanise the midfield and can play either full-back as well.

"He can be a real leader. His determination and his drive can be infectious on other players and that might be what Ipswich have been lacking this year."

But 39-year-old Ainsworth admits he did not expect a player who has 257 top-flight appearances to his name to have to drop down a division to find a club.

"I was a bit surprised he wasn't anywhere else earlier. Having played with him and watched him throughout his career I know what he can give to a team," he said.

"I think there's a place for Nigel in certain Premier League teams. His work ethic is second to none. I still believe there's room for the hard grafters in midfield, the ball winners. He'll turn a few heads in the Championship."