ALTHOUGH Jim Magilton knows his starting XI for the season opener against Preston the Blues boss is still looking to bring in another three new players.

Derek Davis

ALTHOUGH Jim Magilton knows his starting XI for the season opener against Preston the Blues boss is still looking to bring in another three new players.

Magilton last night confirmed he is reviving his interest in Portsmouth striker David Nugent, as revealed yesterday, and has no qualms about what happened earlier in the year when a loan bid failed.

Magilton last night said: “We tried to get him in, it didn't happen and we moved on. I would go back in for Nugent because I know he can live at this level and we know he enjoys scoring at Portman Road as we know.

“He is someone I know could take us to where we want to go.”

Town are looking to add at least three new players before the transfer window closes at the end of August, with two of those defenders.

Magilton said: “I'm still trying with Ben Thatcher but even if we got him I would still like to bring in another defender as well.”

Thatcher has been offered the chance to join Town but is currently training with Wolves as he explores other avenues, and Magilton is not overly concerned.

He said: “Ben, with his quality and experience, is weighing up his own options and I have absolutely no problem with that. Once he is absolutely sure then we will put a proposition to him and if he accepts then he will be a good addition to our squad, if not we move on and go for someone else.”

Magilton knows he also faces fierce competition for Celtic centre-half Bobo Balde.

He said: “Bobo is also weighing up his options. We have put our hat in the ring and now it is time to hope for the best.”

It is unlikely any new signings will happen before Saturday week but Magilton is looking more long term.

He said: “With the personnel I have now I know my team.

“I'm not desperate to add but I would like to add extra quality if I can get it. If we can I will certainly bring it in. It is a 46-game season and it is important to hit the ground running.

“That emphasis has never changed and the emphasis from me and the scouting department is to bring people in that can take us up that extra level.

“There is nothing concrete at the moment.”

Stephen Bywater, who had a six month loan spell at Town from Derby is being considered as a back-up keeper by Spurs. His signature is said to be dependent on a medical.