EVERTON have rejected a bid by Ipswich Town boss Joe Royle to take 6'4'' striker Duncan Ferguson on loan, writes Derek Davis.The Blues boss admitted trying to land the Scottish striker (right) in an attempt to bolster his squad.

EVERTON have rejected a bid by Ipswich Town boss Joe Royle to take 6'4'' striker Duncan Ferguson on loan, writes Derek Davis.

The Blues boss admitted trying to land the Scottish striker (right) in an attempt to bolster his squad.

Earlier this week Town were reported to have been interested in signing 6'7'' Peter Crouch, which caused concerns among fans who are already worried that Town are turning to the long-ball game.

Royle's admission that he was chasing Ferguson, who has not scored since April 2002, would indicate he is still after a tall target man, even though he has brought in wily playmaking midfielder Alan Mahon and Chris Bart-Williams.

Royle said: "We have made a serious attempt to bring Duncan to Portman Road. I feel he is a big impact player who could have made a statement here and I am disappointed that our efforts have been turned down.

"I have been speaking to David Moyes but I understand the reasons why he has declined our request."

The 31-year-old striker has scored 49 goals in 158 appearances for Everton but has made little impact in recent times.

Everton's Lee Carsley was also a Town loan target but was discounted when he picked up a further knee injury which playing in the Republic of Ireland's 1-1 draw with Russia.

Town eventually captured Chris Bart-Williams after watching him playing for Charlton reserves and needing someone short term to replace the injured Tommy Miller.

Alan Mahon arrived from Blackburn on Monday in a three-month deal and both will make their debuts tomorrow at West Bromwich Albion as Town look to extend their 26-match unbeaten run against the Baggies.