Veteran midfielder Jim Magilton is an addition to Joe Royle's injury list ahead of Saturday's game at Coventry. Like Thomas Gaardsøe, Magilton has a groin problem and their fitness will be assessed on Thursday.

Royle says that this week will not be a busy one for his players with rest an important part of their approach at this stage: "They are physically right at this stage of the season so really it is all about mental strength. Some people will benefit from a little break while others will tick over nicely."

With Darren Bent out for what looks like most of the rest of the season the Town manager will be keen for Alun Armstrong to get back to full fitness after his wrist injury. Armstrong came on in the last couple of minutes on Saturday and will be involved in the reserves against Watford on Wednesday (KO 7pm, Portman Road).

Dean Bowditch was left out of the first team squad at the weekend because he was feeling tired, although he was used as a sub in the U17s 2-1 win against Manchester United. He is likely to be back involved with the senior side at the weekend.

Also currently having a rest is David Sheepshanks. The club chairman is on a short skiing holiday and missed the second half of Saturday's game with Nottingham Forest.

Photo: Action Images

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