JIM Magilton today told French midfielder Alex Bertin and Algerian defender Medhi Menari that they do not figure in Ipswich's plans.Both played in last night's 1-1 draw in Belgium against SV Zulte Waregem, but left the team hotel today.

By Elvin King

JIM Magilton today told French midfielder Alex Bertin and Algerian defender Medhi Menari that they do not figure in Ipswich's plans.

Both played in last night's 1-1 draw in Belgium against SV Zulte Waregem, but left the team hotel today.

And the Blues manager is unlikely to take on two othertrialists who played last night - left-back Indi Sigursson and Finnish midfielder Marko Kolsi.

But Magilton is hoping that he can announce the arrival of two newcomers before the players return from the six-day trip to Holland and Belgium at the weekend.

“Alex did well and he could become a squad player,” said Magilton. “But we need more than that with the limited resources we have to improve the squad.

“I thanked him and wished him well. Medhi is not match fit, and we want someone who can go straight into first team consideration.

“I have yet to decide whether to play Indi and/or Marko against Dordrecht in our final tour match tomorrow, but at the moment I expect to field my strongest side available.

“With the okay to bring in two players - for now - I want them to be ones who can make a big difference.

“And it looks as though that could be happening by the weekend. I have a few phone calls to make.”

Magilton has received good reports about the progress of Gavin Williams, Owen Garvan and Alan Lee, who are recovering from injury and illness at the Rushmere training ground.

“All three will hopefully feature in our final warm-up game - at home to Lazio tomorrow week,” said Magilton, who is expected to regard Shane Supple as his number one keeper.

Welsh international Lewis Price played last night, but if he is considered to be Supple's deputy he might be loaned out so that he can gain valuable first team experience.

An experience deputy to Supple would then be brought in.

Dean Bowditch suffered some discomfort yesterday, and only played for 45 minutes, but he confirmed that it was not shin splint problems and that he does not see it as being long term.

Ian Westlake put Town ahead last night in the 41st minute, but the home side levelled 14 minutes later.