SHEFFIELD United have made a firm inquiry about Ipswich's transfer-listed goalkeeper Andy Marshall.If the Blades do land a deal with the former England Under- 21 international it could help Town chief Joe Royle in his bid to bring in a new midfielder or striker on loan.

By Dave Allard

SHEFFIELD United have made a firm inquiry about Ipswich's transfer-listed goalkeeper Andy Marshall.

If the Blades do land a deal with the former England Under- 21 international it could help Town chief Joe Royle in his bid to bring in a new midfielder or striker on loan.

The Blues chief said today that it was not impossible that he may secure a new loan deal before Saturday's big home game with West Ham.

With no cash to spend, Royle said: "Ideally we need to get someone out before we get someone in. I have been making inquiries and if the right situation did occur it is not totally out of the question that something may happen before that. It is a question of availability.

"But there is a fortnight's break after that and it is more likely that something will happen during that time.

"Sheffield United have been on to me about Andy Marshall. I've told them that he is available and given them other details. Now the ball is in their court."

Blades boss Neil Warnock is struggling on the keeper front with first choice Paddy Kenny out with what may turn out to be a serious knee ligament injury.

Kristian Rogers, a young

keeper signed from Wrexham in the close season, will play in the home game against Coventry on Saturday.

If a deal can be done with Marshall the ex-Town first choice may be on duty at Bramall Lane.

Meanwhile, Town have a worry themselves about Kelvin Davis, the man brought in from Wimbledon to replace Marshall.

He dislocated a finger in the defeat at Wigan on Tuesday night but he said today, "I am hopeful of being fit. I intend to start catching balls again tomorrow."

Royle has confirmed 19 year-old Lewis Price will make his debut if Davis fails to come through.

Royle gave vent to his feelings after the Wigan defeat which leaves Town 20th in the table.

He was today set for further talks with chairman David Sheepshanks about the financial situation.

Royle said: "It's still very early days in the season. A little bit of confidence has been lacking and we're still trying to find the right balance up front. We'll keep working hard to get it right.

"The Wigan defeat was a big disappointment, but if a couple of chances had been taken it could have been a different story.

Town's game at Crystal Palace will now be played on Tuesday, October 21. It was scheduled for Saturday week at Selhurst Park but has been postponed due to Palace players being away on

international duty.