Irish youngster John Paul Kelly was at Portman Road last week and was in the Academy U18 side which defeated Fulham 3-0 on Saturday. Yesterday sources in Ireland reported that Town were amongst a number of clubs chasing the 17-year-old.

Kelly wasn't the only trialist involved in the Fulham game, ex-Arsenal midfielder Dean McDonald was in action and scored two goals. McDonald was released by the Gunners in the summer.

Town boss Joe Royle has praised the club's youngsters after Monday's 3-2 FA Youth Cup win over Portsmouth. He told the club site: "The lads were excellent, played really well and thoroughly deserved to win.

"It was like watching the first team on occasions; chances missed, all over the opposition, yet having to come from behind to win.

"Aidan Collins played very well and was unlucky not to score himself. He is really pushing on now after a year of injuries and Michael Synnott also enjoyed a good game.

"Cathal Lordan and Billy Clarke showed some nice touches and Billy got a lovely goal as well.

"It was a terrific all round team performance and they all deserve a lot of credit."

Town's U18s face the winner of the Manchester United-Stoke City tie being played at Hyde United on Thursday night.

Photo: Action Images

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