DANNY Haynes is standing by to return to the Ipswich Town team at Southampton tomorrow.And he confirmed today that he is up to the task.If Alan Quinn is ruled out because of a troublesome ankle then Haynes is raring to go and play as big a part as he did in the 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace on February 12.

Elvin King

DANNY Haynes is standing by to return to the Ipswich Town team at Southampton tomorrow.

And he confirmed today that he is up to the task.

If Alan Quinn is ruled out because of a troublesome ankle then Haynes is raring to go and play as big a part as he did in the 1-0 victory at Crystal Palace on February 12.

Haynes, who wears a specially fitted mouth guard in matches after taking a blow to his teeth and gums at Charlton in December, scored the winner at Selhurst Park - even if the ball did deflect off his nose.

If Owen Garvan misses out, Haynes could be the only Ipswich academy product in the starting line-up at St Mary's Stadium.

Haynes, who turned 20 last month, says he has now grown up.

“I feel like a senior member of the squad,” he said. “I've been very involved this season, which has been pleasing, and I feel established.

“At one time I'd have been quite quiet in the team talks and out on the pitch. But now if something needs to be said I'll say it.

“My confidence has grown and I feel justified in getting my points across, even to senior players.”

Town manager Jim Magilton, who could add teenage striker Jordan Rhodes to his squad, is happy to have such a versatile player as Haynes at his disposal.

“I really enjoy playing out on the left, but I'll happily play anywhere if it gets me a spot in the team,” added Haynes.

“On the left, right or up front. If I'm honest I feel more natural on the right, but I think it's good to be versatile. It serves me well.”

Southampton, who have been hit by the news that experienced defender Claus Lundekvam will miss the rest of the season with an ankle injury, have lost three of their last four home games.

Nigel Pearson has taken over as manager following the departure of former Town boss George Burley to take the Scotland job.

Pearson's chairman Leon Crouch has made a passionate appeal to Saints fans to get behind the team against Town.

Desperate for a win after being sucked to within four points of the drop zone, Saints may need all the help they can get to lift themselves out of their current abyss.

Crouch said: “We need the fans behind us, the manager needs it and the players need it. We have to put other matters to one side.

“In our last home game against Plymouth it was a difficult situation and quite rightly the fans were unhappy when we conceded two quick goals.

“But we have to move on. This is a new opportunity.”