VETERAN defender Mark Venus, released by Ipswich Town, is a target of Third Division side Cambridge United.Venus, 34, missed most of last season with a knee injury and although the Blues struggled with defensive problems for much of the campaign, was deemed surplus to requirements.

VETERAN defender Mark Venus, released by Ipswich Town, is a target of Third Division side Cambridge United.

Venus, 34, missed most of last season with a knee injury and although the Blues struggled with defensive problems for much of the campaign, was deemed surplus to requirements.

United boss John Taylor, whose side failed to bounce back after being relegated from Division Two in 2002, said he wanted an experienced player, and Venus fitted the bill.

“Mark is one of the players we are looking at,” said Taylor yesterday.

“We have a number of young players but need an experienced head to help them at the back.”