DAVID Norris left Portman Road on crutches following the game against Blackpool - but insisted he would be fit for this Saturday's game against Stoke.

Elvin King

DAVID Norris left Portman Road on crutches following the game against Blackpool, but insisted he would be fit for this Saturday's game against Stoke.

After helping Ipswich Town consolidate their Coca-Cola Championship top-six position with a splendid 2-1 victory on Saturday, the 26-year-old £2million January signing had this message:

“I love being here and I will be fit to play at Stoke City on Saturday.”

And confirming that he has no regrets over his long drawn-out move from Plymouth, Norris said:

“I am used to playing in front of half the number of people Ipswich attract. The fans appear wonderful, and do not get on your back. They were patient when it was not happening for us on Saturday.

“It has been a tremendous boost away from home as they have a huge part to play if you are up against it.

“Hopefully they will take to me.”

Reflecting back on his current use of crutches, Norris said: “I have been playing with a sore heel for a while, and it became more painful during Saturday's game.

“It was felt best to give me an injection immediately after the match, and this is why I left the ground on crutches. But I expect to be training normally for most of the week.”

With other transfer window signings Alan Quinn and Velice Sumulikoski both scoring sensational goals since their arrival, Norris has been overshadowed so far following his big-money move.

The man who Town boss Jim Magilton had been his number target for 18 months, said: “I knew all about Ipswich being a family club. And a friendly one.

“Well, this has surpassed my expectations, and I love being here. Gaining three wins in my four games has been a massive help, as it allows you to settle in quicker.

“I had a couple of chances on Saturday, but they came to nothing. But as soon as one goes in I am sure others will follow.”

Town have two away games coming up with a visit to leaders Stoke City on Saturday and then Southampton the following week.

And Norris is confident of keeping the current good run going, saying: “We have the quality to be realistic bets for a top six finish.

“There is a buzz around the place and at least four points from our next two games will put us in great shape.”

N (SQUARE) WHAT is your verdict on £2million David Norris. Have your say. Write to sports department, Evening Star, 30, Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or e-mail starsport@eveningstar.co.uk