Charlton manager Alan Curbishley says that former Blue Matt Holland was misquoted in reports which claimed he was looking for a loan move away from the Valley. The Ireland international contacted his boss when the story broke to tell him he is keen to remain with the Addicks.

The Charlton boss said: "He wants to fight for his place.

"Matty phoned me up as soon as that hit the papers, to be fair, and said he had been misquoted.

"He had a really disappointing pre-season and I think that Wednesday's Ireland game was his third game of the season.

"I am aware that Matt is available to me - and Jason Euell, who has just started light training, isn't too far off as well."

Town boss Joe Royle was unwilling to comment on reports linking Holland with a short-term return to Portman Road.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls