NEWCASTLE might be more than 280 miles away from Ipswich, but for several of Town's squad this Saturday's showdown with the Magpies will feel like a local derby.

Carl Marston

By Carl Marston

NEWCASTLE might be more than 280 miles away from Ipswich, but for several of Town's squad this Saturday's showdown with the Magpies will feel like a local derby.

The ex-Sunderland trio of Grant Leadbitter, Carlos Edwards and Jon Stead will all be relishing a game against the “old enemy,” while for Jack Colback it will mean a first taste of action against his home-town club, and against the team that he supported as a boy!

Teenage midfielder Colback, who celebrated his first ever senior goal in Town's 3-3 draw at Doncaster Rovers on Saturday, was born in Newcastle and had a trial at St James' Park.

But he ended up at Sunderland instead, and a subsequent loan move to Ipswich in August has paved the way for this clash with his favourite old club.

He is also hoping that Town boss Roy Keane gives him an extended run-out on Saturday.

“Newcastle at home is a really big game, and I hope that I'm involved,” enthused Colback.

“I was champing at the bit to get on at Doncaster. It was good that the manager brought us (substitutes) on early, because it gave us a good chance to make an impact.

“On a personal level, I'm happy with the way it's going at Ipswich. I'm pleased to be playing and I feel that I'm making strides in my career.

“That's why I've come here, rather than playing reserve football.

“It will be nice to play against Newcastle this weekend. I love to play in big games.

“I supported Newcastle when I was growing up. I went on trial there, but it didn't really feel right so I went to Sunderland,” added Colback.

The 19-year-old is on loan at Portman Road until January, and he knows that Sunderland boss Steve Bruce is plotting his progress with interest.

“I know that Steve Bruce watched me play on Tuesday (1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest), but the most important thing is that I impress the manager here (Keane).

“Although I'm happy with my own game, I want to help the team to start winning, and moving up the table.

“If I can impress Steve Bruce, then that's a bonus,” concluded Colback.