George Burley and David Sheepshanks have moved to Hermann Hreidarsson's defence, saying the Icelander is not a jinx. The defender has suffered relegation from the Premiership twice with Crystal Palace and Wimbledon and a further drop with Town would set a record, prompting press jibes.

However, chairman David Sheepshanks leapt to the left-sided player's defence: "If Hermann is a jinx then he's the sort of jinx I like to have. He's been an inspired and super signing for us, not only as a player but as a character at the club."

Town manager George Burley concurred: "This jinx business wasn't being said last season when we finished fifth in the Premiership and qualified for Europe after promotion.

"Hermann has done tremendously well for us since he came to the club and has never given less than 100 per cent. His attitude has always been first class and he will play his usual leading role in our battle for survival."

The Icelander joined Town for £4.5 million just as last season's Premiership campaign was beginning. He ended it finishing second in Town's Player of the Year vote behind Marcus Stewart.

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