Town manager Joe Royle says that stopping David Johnson will be one of the keys to success against Nottingham Forest at Portman Road on Saturday. Former Blue Johnson recently returned to action after six months out with a broken leg.
Royle, who tried to buy Johnson from Town when manager at Manchester City, said: "I am always wary of a player returning to his old stamping ground.
"We were concerned about Marcus Stewart coming back with Sunderland recently, but David will be an even bigger threat because he will be starting for Forest.
"He has always tended to do well against us and, while I'm sure he still has great affection for Ipswich, we don't want him showing it by scoring against us.”
Last season the Jamaica full and England B and U21 international scored both Forest goals as the Tricky Trees defeated Town 2-1 at the City Ground, although he failed to net in his side's 4-3 victory at Portman Road later in the year.
Despite their lowly position, Forest were amongst the mos impressive sides the Blues have faced this season when the teams met at the City Ground in December. Royle says his side will not be taking them lightly: "They will be no pushovers. I regard them as one of the best sides in the First Division and I've been puzzled by their form all season.
"Earlier in the season, at their place, there were times in the game when they outplayed us and not too many sides can say that this season.”
Town continue to have an injury concern about Tommy Miller. The midfielder picked up a hamstring problem against Gillingham but is pencilled in for training on Friday. Wantaway Dutchman Martijn Reuser looks like his obvious replacement should Miller not make it.
Drissa Diallo is also undergoing treatment for a knee injury, while John McGreal has a problem with his foot. Both players are likely to be OK for Forest's visit.
Chris Bart-Williams may be recalled to the first team squad after his recent back problems. The former Forest man is likely to play in the reserves against Portsmouth this evening, although may be kept out by a slight groin niggle.