SOUTHAMPTON defender Chris Baird has turned down the chance to go out on loan with Ipswich Town – or any other club for the moment, writes Derek Davis.

SOUTHAMPTON defender Chris Baird has turned down the chance to go out on loan with Ipswich Town – or any other club for the moment, writes Derek Davis.

Baird's agent, Gary Williams, confirmed Ipswich had asked about Baird but that his client did not want to go out on loan anywhere.

He added: "Chris does not want to go out on loan because he is in the middle of buying a house in Southampton and his fiancee is pregnant."

Leicester City and Stoke City had also expressed their interest in a loan deal, while Baird had already snubbed moves to Norwich City, Wigan and West Bromwich Albion before penning a two-year deal to stay with the Saints.

Royle is continuing his hunt for a Premiership defender and was last night last night waiting to hear back from his latest target's club.

He said: "We have left it with them and they will hopefully get back to us this week."

Royle is also in the market for a loan striker but has ruled out making a move for Liverpool's Anthony Le Tallec, who Rafael Benitez said would benefit from gaining experience elsewhere.

The Blues are taking a look at French striker Nicolas Gousse from Guingkamp who is training with the squad this week. The 28-year-old has been ruled out of tomorrow's game with Newcastle United as he will not get international clearance in time.

Another slight doubt is skipper Jim Magilton, who missed training yesterday with a sore foot.

Royle said: "Jim should be OK for Wednesday but if he is not right we will not risk him. That said, if he comes through training he will play."

Scott Mitchell is recovering from a groin injury, while Fabian Wilnis and Kelvin Davis have got over their back problems.