Striker Billy Clarke is back with Town after completing his loan spell with Darlington, but says he would like to remain with the Quakers for the rest of the season. Clarke netted nine goals in 22 starts and three sub appearances for the League Two side.

Clarke, whose Town deal is up in the summer, says he would prefer to remain with Darlington rather than return to the Blues' reserves, but is as yet unaware of where his future might lie: "I don't know what's going to happen. It's between the two clubs to be honest.

"I would like to stay, but it's not down to me. It's up to the clubs to get it sorted and if they can I would be happy."

Quakers boss Dave Penney says talks have begun with the Blues: "I've spoken to Ipswich and now we're waiting to find out where we stand. Obviously it's been a hectic time, they've had two games in three days just like us, so I'll speak to their manager, Jim Magilton.”

Clarke appears to be well and truly out of Magilton's plans and a move away from Portman Road in January looks all but certain. Other clubs have been keeping an eye on the Irish U21 international during his time with Darlington and Town may look to achieve a small fee for the striker.

A report in Ireland recently linked Clarke with a move to hometown club Cork City, but that seems highly unlikely with Eircom League sides unable to compete financially with English clubs.

Dan Harding has also finished his half-season loan with Southend, but Matt Richards will complete his latest spell with Brighton on Saturday, while Dean Bowditch is with Brentford until January 10th.

Chris Casement is also due back at Portman Road this week after his spell with Hamilton Academical, while Kurt Robinson's month with Northampton is due to come to an end with the left-back having failed to make an appearance for the Cobblers.

Liam Trotter's three months with Grimsby was up last week and the midfielder returned to Portman Road.

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