Central defender Alex Bruce says he is ready to sign a new contract with the Blues. Bruce is set to return to first team action on Wednesday when Town face Wigan Athletic, the club managed by his father Steve, in the Carling Cup.

Bruce said: "If the manager puts a new contract on the table then I will sign it like a shot. It is up to him, and it is up to me to impress him.

"I know my agent has had a couple of chats with the manager and we will see how things go and I have no problems at all in tying my future to this great club.”

The 23-year-old is expected to replace the rested Richard Naylor at the heart of the Town defence against the Latics.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls