Town skipper Jim Magilton is the main doubt ahead of Saturday's league operner against Gillingham at Portman Road. The Northern Irishman picked up a thigh strain in the pre-season win against Newcastle which a scan has shown to be worse than originally thought.

Manager Joe Royle said: "Jim is our biggest doubt. He can train but cannot really kick the ball long.

"We must decide whether to use him in a limited way or to give him the full ten days rest. We have 46 league games to play, so we won't be taking any risks.

"Jim is a massive influence for us and he won't play unless he is totally happy with his situation."

Town are confident that midfielder Kevin Horlock will be fit for Saturday after receiving a kick to the knee in the game against Osasuna.

Jason De Vos suffered a similar problem and, while his knee is still swollen, he is not being ruled out of Saturday's match.

Matt Richards is expected to be sufficiently over his cut foot to play against the Kent side.

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