Ed Sheeran and Ipswich are following in the footsteps of Norman Cook and Albion.

Sheeran will sponsor Ipswich’s shirts next season, emblazoning them with the titles of his albums and the word “Tour”.

But will he change the name of Portman Road?

That is what happened at Withdean when Norman, AKA Fatboy Slim, was backing the Seagulls.

Norman’s label Skint Records sponsored the Seagulls from 1999 until 2008.

It was one of the Football League’s longest running sponsorship deals.

The Argus:

Palookaville complete with eight-lane running track

Skint famously turned Withdean Stadium into Palookaville, to promote Fatboy’s new album of that name, for a game against Sheffield United in 2004.

Albion wore a special kit designed in the 1-1 draw and the album was played to fans two days before its release.

Norman’s support of his club pre and post-dates the official sponsorship deal.

He has watched every Albion game on TV during the fans’ absence and says it has helped with his mental health.

But he plans to be at the Amex in person when Manchester City visit before almost 8,000 Seagulls supporters the week after next.

The Argus:

Fatboy Slim at Palookaville (AKA Norman Cook at Withdean Stadium) in 2004

Norman said: “I’ve enjoyed watching the Albion on TV, but there’s that extra passion and extra sense of togetherness when you’re shouting or singing in a crowd – and we’re all looking forward to experiencing that feeling once again at the Amex.

WHERE ALBION STAND ON STAR PLAYERS AHEAD OF TRANSFER WINDOW

“It’s not just about the fans though. It’s also important for the players to hear us cheering them on.

“They’ve been playing out of their skins recently but it must help them when they hear the roar of a crowd.”