Norris will play against Doncaster

Derek Davis

DAVID Norris will play against Doncaster Rovers on Saturday.

Norris is included in the travelling party and after initially being left out of what was considered the first team line-up in training is now set to keep his place.

Blues boss Jim Magilton has picked his squad on purely footballing reasons and wants to draw a line under events surrounding the 27-year-old midfielder.

Norris hit the headlines for his controversial goal celebration for jailed former team-mate Luke McCormick after scoring the winner against Blackpool last Saturday.

The gesture upset Amanda and Phil Peak, parents of Ben and Arron who died when former Plymouth Argyle player was driving back from Norris' wedding in Bolton. McCormick later admitted death by dangerous driving and drink-driving.

Norris was fined the maximum allowed two weeks wages, around £24,000, which was donated by the club to charity. The club also considered not including him for the game at the Keepmoat Stadium, which will be shown live on Sky TV at 5.20pm.

Although Norris was left in no uncertain terms during training this week at his manager's displeasure over the events, Magilton decided he would be included in the 18-man squad to play against the bottom club.

Magilton said: “David is an important member of our squad and as I have included him in the party that will travel to Doncaster.

“My selection of the 18 has to be made purely on footballing reasons alone.”

Magilton would not be drawn on his starting XI but I understand Norris will play, along with Darren Ambrose, who will replace Alan Quinn on the left side of midfield.

Norris has been in the starting side for the last three Town wins, missing the home draw against Charlton through suspension.

Norris has written a letter of regret to the Peaks and intends to visit their Manchester home to apologise in person and the club are keen to put the incident behind them.

Magilton said: “Out of due respect to Mr and Mrs Peak I'm not prepared to say anything more than what was said in the statement that the club issued earlier in the week.”

The Blues boss has also denied reports that Ipswich have offered Irish defender Graham Gartland a contract, but confirmed they have had talks with the 25-year-old who is a free agent after being released by Drogheda United.