Town boss Mick McCarthy has revealed that Stoke City defender Danny Higginbotham is set to remain with the Blues for the rest of the season, while Bilel Mohsni will return to Southend. Both players’ current spells are due to end after Saturday’s game at Wolves.

McCarthy says he has talked to Potters boss Tony Pulis about Higginbotham, who wants to stay with the Blues: “I spoke to Tony, he’s happy to do that and Danny is as well, so we just need to tie that up.”

The Blues manager says Higginbotham, whose Stoke contract is up at the end of the season, will be looking to win back his place in the side having been on the bench in recent weeks: “Danny started well against Birmingham but by his own admission didn’t play as well in a couple of the other games.

“I made a change, I have to be fair I was having a look at all the players, and unfortunately for Danny the two we’ve got in, Chambo and Tommy, have been excellent together and he’s been pushed down the pecking order. But he’s all right, he wants to fight for his place.”

Whether Higginbotham’s new loan will be done in time for him to be available for the Brighton match on New Year’s Day remains to be seen: “I hope I’m going to find that out today," McCarthy added.

Higginbotham, who celebrates his 34th birthday tomorrow, has made 11 starts and one sub appearance since moving to Portman Road in September.

Regarding versatile Frenchman Mohsni, the Town boss confirmed that he will be returning to Southend having made only five substitute appearances since joining the Blues at the beginning of October: “He’s been on the bench, he’s been involved, but I haven’t picked him and he’s not going to get picked. I want to do something different in the window, use the loan elsewhere if I can.”

In terms of new additions, McCarthy says no deals are imminent: “I’ve spoken to loads of managers. Nothing’s going to happen immediately.

“As it is with January, everyone would like it settled for January 1st but it’s not going to happen because other teams will wait and see what they’re going to get in and see how it changes.”

Photo: Action Images

TimmyH added 18:06 - Dec 28 Yeah Moshni hardly got a look in and really a waste of a loan in my opinion, have to say I have been a bit disappointed with Higginbotham - he started ok but had some rather 'dodgy' games and hence that's why Chambers and Smith have been starting over the last month.
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Talbs77 added 20:30 - Dec 28 Not at all surprised Moshni is on way back but also surprised MM has kept Sidebottom as thought he would also be on his way. In the perfect world I wouldnt want anymore loans as think there sticking plasters for squads but if they keep us in this league so be it.
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