Town may end Chris Bart-Williams' loan spell at Portman Road early due to his suspension and the likelihood that the Nottingham Forest away game will be postponed. Bart-Williams, whose second month is up on November 14th, misses the Derby game on Saturday due to suspension.

Town boss Joe Royle says the club are assessing the position: "We are having a look at that situation. We are well aware of the dates of the loan agreement."

Town will want to make the most of the cash they are spending on their loan players so it may be that the Charlton player returns to the Valley before rejoining Town at a later date, perhaps in time to line-up against Sheffield United on November 22nd.

The Blues have already terminated Alan Mahon's loan from Blackburn while the Irishman recovers from his hamstring injury, however they have an agreement from Rovers that the 25-year-old will return to the Town side once he is fit.

Bart-Williams, 29, has generally impressed during his time at Portman Road, despite an underpar performance against Gillingham on Saturday. Joe Royle has said he is keen to sign all three loan players permanently if at all possible.

Like Bart-Williams, Richard Naylor misses out at Derby due to a one-match suspension, the pair having reached five bookings.

John McGreal looks the favourite to take over from Naylor at the centre of defence but will have to prove himself during Wednesday's reserves game at home to Nottingham Forest.

Martin Reuser and Darren Bent will also be involved on Wednesday as they return from groin and knee injuries.

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