ROY Keane has had one knock-back, but he is still gunning for two loan players of Premier League pedigree.

Carl Marston

ROY Keane has had one knock-back, but he is still gunning for two loan players of Premier League pedigree.

And Town's boss intimated that none of his players are on the verge of leaving on loan, even though out-of-favour Jon Stead has been attracting interest from Derby.

Keane revealed this morning: “I can understand a player's desire to stay at their club and fight for their place, especially in the Premier League.

“But I'm targeting another player at a Premier League club, because I think that coming to Ipswich would be a great challenge for anyone.

“No one is close to leaving, though of course that could change very quickly.

“I've heard nothing about Jon Stead and Derby County, though it wouldn't surprise me because I left him out of the squad (on Saturday). It would not surprise me if there were enquiries.

“There have been one or two calls to the chief executive at the club,” added Keane.

Town entertain Watford tomorrow evening, hoping to record their first league win in 13 attempts.