Town have recalled defender Pim Balkestein from his loan spell at Brentford. The Dutchman was due to remain with the Bees until January 17th.
The Blues insisted on being able to recall the 22-year-old at 24 hours’ notice when the spell was extended at the end of his first month with the League One side.
Balkestein is probably required at Portman Road as cover with full-back David Wright having picked up a cut to a foot at Palace, while central defender Damien Delaney appeared to be struggling with what looked like a groin problem in the second half of the 3-0 victory over QPR on Monday.
The former Heerenveen man, who made eight appearances while at Griffin Park, wasn’t given permission to play in the FA Cup for Brentford and will be available for Saturday’s game at Blackpool if required.