Boss Jim Magilton says he is considering a recall for loan strikers Jordan Rhodes and Billy Clarke, with the Blues currently unable to score goals at home. The duo have hit hat-tricks in the last week for Brentford and Northampton respectively.

Magilton said: "Especially at home we just need that ruthless streak in us at times. Maybe a sniffer like Jordan or Billy might be something we could use from the bench."

A recall for Rhodes wouldn't please Brentford boss Andy Scott who says he has already asked Town if Rhodes can remain with his League Two club until the end of the season.

Rhodes, 19 on Thursday, netted a perfect hat-trick - one goal via his left foot, one his right and the third a header - on Saturday as the Bees beat Shrewsbury 3-1 in only his third game for his latest loan club.

Scott was delighted with Rhodes's treble: "Rhodes is a threat and not only is he a threat but he put his body on the line for the team. He is only 18, and to put in that sort of performance is outstanding."

Rhodes himself was delighted with his first hat-trick in senior football: "I was absolutely buzzing after the first goal. That set the standard - I rode my luck today and got in a few times, I could have had more.

"It was all instinct - I'm not one to score spectacular goals usually. I seemed to find myself in the right areas; I got five or six good chances I could have put in.

"Some days you work hard and don't get much return for your work - sometimes you don't get a chance.”

The striker says he hasn't really thought much about the next few months, but hopes to be involved in the Bees' promotion push, although news of a potential recall is likely to change his mind: "There is not much point planning long term. You don't know what will happen. All being well I can help Brentford into League One."

Meanwhile, the transfer window closes at 5pm today with Town appearing unlikely to be too busy. The likes of Matt Richards and one or two youngsters could go out on loan, but no big new signings or exits are expected.

Boss Jim Magilton hinted earlier in the month that Shane Supple could be allowed to spend some time out on loan, which would mean the Blues would need to bring in a keeper as cover for the Irish U21 international, probably an experienced player on a short-term deal or loan.

More longer term, the Blues are said to be keeping an eye on Jarrod Westcarr from Nottingham-based East Midlands Counties Football League side Dunkirk FC.

Westcarr, an 18-year-old striker, is the brother of former Nottingham Forest forward Craig.

Another Dunkirk player, striker or midfielder Theo Smith, joins the Blues on a two-week trial on Wednesday.

Elsewhere, a national newspaper reports that club owner Marcus Evans plans to have his logo emblazoned across two of Portman Road's stands.

Photo: Action Images

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