The popular striker netted 25 goals in 122 appearances with the Blues.
The reference was unsurprisingly favorable about Pompey, but Lee Evans expected a little prejudice.
After all, asking Conor Chaplin for his thoughts on a potential Fratton Park trade would undoubtedly elicit an excited response.
The former Blues favourite makes no secret of his love for the club, which he represented 122 times and scored 25 goals after rising through the ranks.
It certainly made sense for Evans to pick the brain of his former Ipswich teammate while considering a transfer to the south coast.
And the Pompey supporter confirmed his decision to join the long-time League One leaders till the conclusion of the season.
Evans told The News: ‘I told Chappers there was an interest; it was just a conversation between me and him; he was eager for me to accept this one over any others.
‘He’s mentioned the atmosphere and the club itself; it’s a large football club. I didn’t need him to tell me that; I knew it already.
‘He was ecstatic for me, telling me how fortunate I am to be playing in front of these incredible people. He’s a Pompey fan who came up through the ranks and wants to see the team promoted.
‘It’s probably comparable to my experience with Newport County. The first club where you made your professional debut will always hold special significance for you.
‘In the locker room, we knew he was a Pompey fan. With them performing well, he has been speaking a little more than in previous years!
Chaplin scored his 12th goal of the season in Ipswich’s 3-2 win over Bristol City on Tuesday evening.
The striker just celebrated his 50th goal for the Tractor Boys, who signed him from Barnsley in July 2021.
With 10 games left in the Championship, he is in pole position to play in the Premier League the following season.
Evans added: “Chappers is flying.” On Tuesday night, he scored another goal.
‘The team is doing wonderfully well, and I just hope they can stay where they are and be promoted to the Premier League.
‘Chappers works hard on the training field, so it’s no surprise that the rewards show up on the pitch on Saturday.
