Ed Sheeran takes minority stake in boyhood club Ipswich

Pop sensation Ed Sheeran has secured a minority stake in his favorite football club, Ipswich Town.

The global superstar, who is a lifelong fan and shirt sponsor of the Sky Bet Championship side, completed his investment in the Tractor Boys on Tuesday.

Sheeran joins a host of celebrities to invest in lower league English Football League clubs, with Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and Matthew McConaughey just a few to have taken the plunge in recent years.

Sheeran's stake in the club remains undisclosed, but he is said to have taken a 'significant' share.

Details of the deal were announced following Ipswich's 3-0 win over Hull City at Portman Road on Tuesday night.

Speaking to the club website, Sheeran said: "The opportunity to invest in Ipswich Town Football Club is a dream come true. I have always been a huge fan of the club and to be able to play a small part in its future is an incredible privilege."

Ipswich chairman Michael O'Leary welcomed Sheeran's investment:

"We are thrilled to welcome Ed to the Ipswich Town family," he said.

"He is a passionate and committed supporter, and his investment is a real sign of his belief in the club's future."

Sheeran's investment is likely to be welcomed by Ipswich fans, who have seen their club struggle in recent seasons.

The Tractor Boys were relegated from the Premier League in 2002 and have not returned since.

They currently sit 12th in the Championship and are hoping to secure a playoff spot this season.