Former Town manager George Burley has confirmed that he is attempting to take Blues' striker Alun Armstrong to Derby on loan.

Burley says Armstrong, currently out of action with a hip injury, is a player who he has talked his old club about: "I know Alun well because I signed him from Middlesbrough.

"He was outstanding in the first season but had injury problems last season.

"Ipswich manager Joe Royle has spoken to me about the player saying that he might be available on loan.

"That is as far as it's gone. He is not fully fit at the moment, so we'll see how it goes.

"It's no secret that we are looking for a striker and have spoken to between 10 and 15 clubs."

Armstrong looks to be fourth or fifth choice striker at Portman Road but is one of the remaining higher earners. He is available on a free transfer but contrary to some reports the Blues have received no interest from anyone wanting to sign him permanently.

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