PRESTON goalkeeper Andrew Lonergan says that he was flattered by Ipswich Town's reported interest in him this summer.North End insist Blues boss Jim Magilton's approach only amounted to 'an enquiry' about the 24-year-old with no cash offer received.

Elvin King

PRESTON goalkeeper Andrew Lonergan says that he was flattered by Ipswich Town's reported interest in him this summer.

North End insist Blues boss Jim Magilton's approach only amounted to 'an enquiry' about the 24-year-old with no cash offer received.

Preston manager Alan Irvine made it clear he was not in the market to sell a keeper he views as the best in the Championship, and Lonergan is happy to stay with his home-town club.

“I'm a professional,” said Lonergan. “I always enjoy playing at Ipswich. It's a good club. But it won't be any different just because of what happened during the summer.

“It's flattering to hear clubs have shown an interest in you. As a player you take it as a compliment.

“I also take it as a compliment when Alan Irvine said he didn't want to sell me.

“It's a big confidence-booster for any player to know that your manager rates you and wants you around.

“I am perfectly happy at Preston. The approach got rejected and I can't really say any more than that.

“I spoke to the manager while we were in Austria and he told me what his plans are.

“I'm part of them and I just want to do well for him.”

Lonergan started last season on the bench under former boss Paul Simpson, but within four games he was in the side following a back injury to Wayne Henderson - and played the remaining 46 fixtures.

This time he starts as the undisputed No.1 and it will be Henderson's turn to sit and wait once he gets back to full fitness.