On-loan midfielder Alan Mahon has been recalled by Blackburn Rovers and will not see out the rest of his spell at Portman Road. The Blues are keen to sign the Irishman permanently, however an injury crisis at Ewood Park means he is required by Graeme Souness.

Town boss Joe Royle told the club site: "We thought Alan would be here for the length of his loan but Blackburn want him back and there is nothing we can do about it.

"Blackburn have injury problems and Graeme Souness is short of left-sided players so they have recalled Alan and he will go straight into their squad for Friday.

"It has been well documented that we would like to bring Alan here on a permanent deal but that has always been dependant on the financial arrangements.

"I would like to thank Alan for his efforts since he has been at the Club. He has proved very popular with the players and the supporters in his time here."

Town will hope that the former Tranmere man will not be required by the Premiership side for too long and that they can find the cash to bring him to Portman Road on a full-time basis.

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