Town may have new face

IPSWICH may have a new face in their line-up for Sunday's derby clash with arch-rivals Norwich.

Boss Joe Royle is working to add one - possibly even two ­- loan signings before the weekend.

He said today: “I want a forward and a midfielder. We are still looking and talking to people, and I wouldn't rule out something happening before we play Norwich.

“But, as always, we are in other people's hands. I know who I would like, but it very much depends on how clubs are affected by injuries as to whether they can release any of their players.”

In the continued absence of striker Nicky Forster, it is no secret that Royle is keen to add to his attacking options.

But midfield has also become something of a priority after it transpired that the industrious Ian Westlake is unlikely to recover from his ankle injury as quickly as had been hoped.

Royle explained: “It's a little bit worse than what we thought. Initially we were thinking six weeks but he improved quickly and we felt he might be back in two to three weeks.

“Now, though, we are thinking more along the lines of the original diagnosis and with that in mind I am also looking at the possibility of bringing in a midfielder.”

Town's injury woes worsened last night when Fabian Wilnis limped off during the 2-2 home draw with Southampton at Portman Road.

The Dutch defender will definitely miss the Norwich game and is expected to be sidelined for about three weeks.

Spanish signing Sito, absent last night while he served a one-game ban, is a ready-made replacement at right-back.

Skipper Jim Magilton, whose ongoing problem with an arthritic toe meant he was only fit enough for the bench last night, will also return.

Striker Dean Bowditch was also suffering from slight concussion after a clash last night, but he should also be fit for the Canaries' visit.

Meanwhile, Ipswich legend Terry Butcher is tipping his former club for a bright future after last night's draw was delayed by a rare floodlight failure.

Butcher, who captained club and country, is now manager of Scottish side Motherwell.

He was in town to sign copies of his autobiography and stayed to watch the game, which was also attended by ex-Town boss George Burley, now in charge of SPL leaders Hearts.

Butcher said: “I was impressed with the effort put in by the players and their willingness to work for the manager, as well as their attitude and spirit, and the time they made for themselves to pass the ball around.

“This gives Joe plenty to work with and if he gets his missing players back, and his key men stay fit, then this season could be yet another successful one for Ipswich.

“They can take heart from that performance and it was a good point for them against a talented side.”