Paul Jewell has admitted that he is “up against geography” in his search for new blood.

The statement – which echoes the former words of ex-boss Roy Keane – might seem a little strange after 11 new signings arrived in Suffolk during a fruitful summer.

But it means that Town fans might have to be a little patient when the emergency loan window opens tomorrow and Championship clubs can bring in fringe Premier League players for a three-month spell.

A week after being in the hunt for three new players, Jewell yesterday admitted he faced a battle with divisional rivals over attracting the likes of Stoke City defender Danny Collins.

The Ipswich boss said: “We are all after the same players. We are up against geography a little bit – I know that has always been an argument. Once we get them here, I think it surprises a lot of people. It certainly has surprised a lot of people that we have got in over the summer.

“Everyone knows Ipswich is a good club, but even I didn’t realise what a great club it is until I got here. I am excited every day when I walk through the doors.”

Town fans had hoped the opening of the loan window would herald another two or three new signings this week to add to the new side Jewell has bought in the last few months.

But the manager was more cautious, adding: “I am trying to strengthen the squad but I am no different to Steve McClaren or Nigel Clough or Sven (Goran Eriksson). We can try and try but there are lots of factors that need to fall into place, even on a loan deal.

“We have been quite busy over the course of the summer and beyond. We would like to always improve on what we got and if there is something out there we think will suit us and we can afford, we’ll try and do it.

“And we have seven away on international duty and if they come back injured, it might change my plans.”