Town skipper Matt Holland scored Ireland's goal as his side drew 1-1 with Cameroon in Niigata this morning. Holland hit a first time effort on 52 after Patrick Mboma had put the Indomitable Lions ahead in the 39th minute.

Holland lined-up alongside Mark Kinsella in the centre of the Irish midfield and impressed in Ireland's opening World Cup game.

Cameroon had the best of the first half but the Irish were the better of the two sides in the second, and only a post prevented Robbie Keane scoring late on.

Millwall's Steven Reid hit an impressive late freekick which was saved by keeper Boukar Alioum.

Holland's central midfield partner Kinsella has said he would be keen to see the Blues' captain join him at the Valley next season: "Because Ipswich have gone down, there is going to be a lot of talk about their best players. Matty is certainly one of them.

"But the fact is the club might have to sell him. He has been linked with Charlton and I would love to see him come to the club and I don't think it's out of the question.

"We have already signed Gary Rowett, who went down with Leicester City, and it would be more odd if they weren't looking at Matt because he is a quality player.

"He lives quite nearby to Charlton so it could suit him."

Colchester-based Holland has said he is keen to stay at Town and, despite a number of clubs being linked, George Burley says he is unwilling to sell his skipper.

However, Holland's performance and goal can only have encouraged interested sides, and perhaps increased any fee Town might get for him.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls