IPSWICH Town manager Jim Magilton today said that he is pleased with where his team is in the Championship.

Elvin King

IPSWICH Town manager Jim Magilton today said that he is pleased with where his team is in the Championship.

Despite the reaction of a certain section of the fans during last Saturday's 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace, the Blues can move into the top six with victory at Charlton Athletic tomorrow (kick-off 3pm).

“Unlike the media, who have put added pressure on us, I don't make predictions,” said Magilton.

“I concentrate on preparing my players to win every game they go into. Some of the criticism has been over the top, and I am really pleased with where we are.”

Magilton does admit that there is still room for improvement, adding: “We have been a bit nervy and were not at our best despite the 3-0 victory over Barnsley on Tuesday.

“We are confident we can build on that against Charlton, and it is nice to have the opportunity to extend our five-match unbeaten league run.

“In the first 45 minutes at the Valley last season we were very poor, so we have a chance to right a few wrongs.”

When asked if there is a case to keep an unchanged side tomorrow, the Blues boss wouldn't be drawn.

He replied: “I will pick the side, and it will be one that will be prepared to win the game.”

While the back four is likely to remain the same after three clean sheets in the last five league matches and with Ben Thatcher and Pim Balkestein definitely out and Moritz Volz unlikely to be rushed back, there could be changes in midfield.

Spanish striker Pablo Counago picked up an ankle injury in training yesterday but is hoping to be okay and if fit he is likely to continue to partner the free-scoring Jon Stead up front.

Counago scored a memorable cheeky goal in the 3-1 defeat at Charlton last season.

David Norris, Veliche Shumulikoski, Tommy Miller and Danny Haynes will come into contention for the midfield places held by Ivan Campo, Owen Garvan and Alan Quinn on Tuesday.

Magilton paid tribute to versatile defender Alex Bruce, who is currently standing in at right back, and Campo.

“Alex has done really well since he returned from his three-match suspension, while Ivan adds composure and experience.

“He is a little bit frustrated as he is still playing catch-up with his fitness after his delayed start to the season.

“Ivan has still a way to go to reach the match fitness levels of his team mates. He has a wonderful passing game, and we must ensure he is given the opportunity to express this during games.”

There is a two-week international break after tomorrow's match with Magilton confirming that he will be looking to bring in a loan player in that time.

“It is general knowledge in what positions I am looking at, and this search will continue during the break,” said Magilton.

Former Barcelona winger Nano spent time at the Town training ground a few weeks ago, and Magilton has not ruled out having a second look at the 26-year-old left-side player who is not currently under contract anywhere.

“That is a maybe and we are keeping tabs on him,” confirmed Magilton, who will arrange training sessions over the next two weeks so that his players can take extra time off with there being no games for a fortnight.