Skipper Jason De Vos says he isn't be surprised that boss Jim Magilton is being linked with the Northern Ireland manager's position, but wants him to stay at Portman Road. The Canadian paid tribute to the job Magilton has done in his first year in charge.

De Vos says that it would be no shock if Magilton was linked with taking over from Lawrie Sanchez if the temporary Fulham boss leaves his Northern Ireland job at the end of Euro 2008 qualifying: "It wouldn't surprise me if Jim was linked with that kind of job, but we want him here. We are trying to build for the coming seasons - it doesn't happen overnight.

"Jim has done a great job in his first season in management and has brought in a lot of new, young players.

"The steps he is taking to make this club better are progressive and, hopefully we can carry that into next season. We are confident we can be up there challenging."

Meanwhile, Magilton has confirmed that Shane Supple will continue in goal when the Blues play Cardiff City at Portman Road on Sunday (KO 1pm). Lewis Price will remain on the bench and could well have played his last game for Town.

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