x

Town Target an Addick? - Ipswich Town News

Boss Joe Royle has revealed that he was watching Charlton play Hartlepool in the Carling Cup on Tuesday night, suggesting his experienced loan striker target could be an Addick. Former Town trialist Jonatan Johansson looks to be the most likely candidate from Alan Curbishley's line-up.

Johansson, who made a reserve appearance for the Blues while on trial at Portman Road in 1997, played 75 minutes of the victory over Hartlepool, netting a first half penalty.

Another possible Town target in action on Tuesday was South African frontman Shaun Bartlett who, like Johansson, is not currently a first choice at the Valley.

Royle, who has been looking for a loan striker since Nicky Forster underwent a cartilage operation, was speaking to the BBC, the publishers of his autobiography which is out next Thursday. The Town boss said earlier this week that he was close to making a loan signing before the deal eventually fell through.

Royle saw Darren Bent net another goal at the Valley and says he isn't shocked at the former Blue's explosive start to his Addicks career: "I'm not surprised at all. He is a wonderful talent and has got immense talent.

"He is a nice kid with a great attitude and wants to learn. I am pleased, it is good to see the good guys doing well."

Royle also revealed that he spoke to Nottingham Forest boss Gary Megson recently, perhaps indicating that former Portman Road favourite David Johnson might have been on his short-list of potential loanees. However, Johnson is currently in Megson's side and Royle is understood not to be a fan of the 29-year-old.

The Town manager's book, along with the latest tomes from Sir Bobby Robson and Terry Butcher, is available here.

What to read next:

Assistant Keeper Coach Martin Leaves Town
Assistant goalkeeper coach David Martin has revealed he is leaving the club after a year.
Hutchinson Aiming to Become Third Town Player to Win U21 Euros With England
Forward Omari Hutchinson will be aiming to become the third Town player to win the European U21 Championship with Town when he and his teammates face Germany in the final in Bratislava, Slovakia this evening (KO 8pm, Channel 4).
New John Wark Book Now Available For Pre-Order
He’s Here, He’s There, the book celebrating the career of Blues legend John Wark is now available for pre-order.
Ashton: We Have to Look at Recruiting a Different Type of Player
Chairman and CEO Mark Ashton says the Blues will be looking at recruiting a different type of player with the physical attributes required to compete in the Premier League.
Tuanzebe: Memorable Two Years, Thank You
Exiting Town defender Axel Tuanzebe has thanked staff and fans for a memorable two years at the club after signing for Premier League new boys Burnley yesterday.
Former Blues Loanee Andrews Confirmed as Brentford Boss
Brentford have confirmed the appointment of former Blues loanee Keith Andrews as their new head coach.
Besiktas Targeting Cajuste
Turkish side Besiktas are targeting former Blues loanee Jens Cajuste, TWTD understands.
Townsend: Dara Deal Shows Town's Intent
Blues full-back Conor Townsend says his close friend Dara O’Shea signing a new contract which runs to the summer of 2030 shows Town’s intent ahead of the new season.
Town to Face Charlton at Colchester in Pre-Season
Town will play newly promoted Championship Charlton Athletic in a friendly at Colchester United’s Jobserve Community Stadium on Tuesday 29th July (KO 7.30pm).
Burnley Confirm Tuanzebe Signing
Burnley have confirmed the free signing of Town defender Axel Tuanzebe.