Boss Mick McCarthy says loanee Noel Hunt’s future is up to his parent club Leeds United. The 32-year-old’s month with the Blues came to an end after Tuesday’s 3-0 victory over Charlton.
McCarthy says the clubs are yet to talk about the Irishman joining Town for a second spell: "We’re not even at that stage. We took him until January 3rd. He’ll be going back, he’ll probably train with us for the next couple of days and then he’ll go back.
"There’s no point in him staying, he can’t play in the FA Cup, he’ll have to go back and do something else.”
McCarthy says he’s similarly not yet spoken to Hunt about his situation: "I haven’t had that discussion with anybody yet.
"We took him until January 3rd. It’s up to them what they want to do with him, and up to Hunty, to be fair.
"He’s done all right, he scored the winner at Charlton, he’s had a couple of sub appearances and I like him. It’s up to them, see what they want to do.”
With Hunt having previously said he’d like to stay with the Blues and firmly out of favour at Leeds, a return to Portman Road seems likely if the clubs can agree terms.
Following Tuesday’s game, Hunt tweeted his thanks to everyone at Portman Road: "I would like to sincerely thank everyone involved with [ITFC]. I can't thank the staff, fans and especially the boys enough for how they welcomed me into the football club!
"You guys helped me fall back in love with the game and for this I am eternally grateful and will always be in my heart!
"To the fans, thank you guys for accepting me it was a great buzz to come on tonight and so close to nicking another goal! Xxx.”