Town have again sought to play down the continuing rumours surrounding Jon Walters's future. Boss Jim Magilton and chief executive Derek Bowden both say Walters will be back Monday and that there is nothing in the rumours.

Bowden said: "There has been no offer for Jon Walters and no transfer request from Jon and he will back on Monday.”

Magilton says the player's continued absence is purely related to his wife giving birth to their second child: "Jon Walters was given two weeks to be with his family for domestic reasons. I got the full backing of the football club in allowing Jon to spend this time with his wife.

"He will be back with us on Monday with a view to play in the Carling Cup on Tuesday night.”

Walters has been tipped to make a move back to his native North-West in order to be closer to his family. Stoke were reportedly interested in his signature earlier in the summer.

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