Town technical skills coach Steve Foley has returned to Portman Road after spending time with Spanish club Valencia. The former Colchester player joined the Portman Road staff last summer.

Foley was assessing training methods used by the Champions' League quarter-finalists.

Goalkeeper coach Andy Rhodes, father of striker Jordan, is set to spend a similar spell with Bundesliga club Bayern Munich.

Meanwhile, boss Jim Magilton says that keeper Shane Supple is still very much in his plans despite his lack of involvement in the first team this season: “This is the first time in his career Shane has had to ask questions of himself and nobody is more focused. He is the ultimate professional and he will come again.”

Magilton has also revealed that Town's afternoon training sessions have not proved universally popular: “Some players have found the adjustment a little bit difficult and some wives may have had something to say.

“I know the feeling as my wife has had a bit to say as well, but it gives us more time to concentrate on the job in hand.”

Elsewhere, Fulham are now said to be leading the race to sign former Blue Titus Bramble when his Newcastle contract is up in the summer. Portsmouth were previously understood to be heading the field.

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