Town manager Joe Royle says the Blues have ended their long-term interest in loanee Jay McEveley. The Blackburn youngster has been left out of the squad for the Easter period matches along with skipper Jim Magilton.

Royle says that financial factors have influenced his decision: “It would be hard for us budget-wise to sign Jay permanently.

“I still want to bring in a defender for next season, but I am looking for a centre-half who can play full-back rather than a full-back who can also play in the middle of the defence.”

McEveley may have played his last game for the Blues with Royle now keen to look at players who will be with Town next season: “Neither Jay nor Jim is going to be with us next season.

“With that in mind, I have left them out of the next two games so that I can take a closer look at players who will definitely be here.”

Magilton is likely to be given some role in next week's game at home to Derby, the last at Portman Road before the Northern Irishman leaves the Blues after seven years.

Royle has revealed that Doncaster are interested in signing the Town captain for next season after failing to negotiate a deal with Kevin Horlock: “Kevin won't be staying for a third month at Doncaster and they have been unable to agree terms for a permanent deal.

“But they are aware of Jim's availability after this season ends and have confirmed their interest in him.”

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