Preston have given manager Billy Davies permission to speak to Charlton Athletic. The Blues were interested in bringing the Scot to Portman Road but appear out of the running with Premiership clubs turning their attention towards the former Motherwell boss.

Colchester United are reported to have turned down a Town request to talk to their boss Phil Parkinson, although as yet neither club has made a comment.

Hibs continue to remain tight-lipped regarding Tony Mowbray and Town, but are understood to have given the Blues permission to speak to their former skipper and coach.

Mowbray has spent the last few days in Paris and attended the Champions League final. Reports in Scotland claim the Blues would have to find £200,000 compensation if Mowbray is offered and takes the job and another £100,000 for Mark Venus's services if the Hibs assistant manager joins his boss in returning to Portman Road.

Town chairman David Sheepshanks and chief executive Derek Bowden were in London yesterday as they started five days of interviews to find the successor to Joe Royle.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls