GAVIN Williams has already seen enough to know that he would love a long-term future at Ipswich Town.The on loan West Ham midfielder scored on his Blues debut to earn them a draw at Coventry City, in a game they could have won, and is eyeing a permanent move to Portman Road.

By Derek Davis

GAVIN Williams has already seen enough to know that he would love a long-term future at Ipswich Town.

The on loan West Ham midfielder scored on his Blues debut to earn them a draw at Coventry City, in a game they could have won, and is eyeing a permanent move to Portman Road.

Although initially just a month's loan, a permanent deal is a real possibility with manager Joe Royle clearly impressed with the 24-year-old Wales midfielder, and Williams is keen to stay to help the Blues and his international career.

Williams said: “It is a great club, the lads, the staff, everyone have been superb and that has made it easier for me. The way Ipswich play suits me and that is a reason why I was so pleased to come here.

“I gave it long enough at West Ham to see if I could break into the team and I didn't, so I was delighted when Ipswich came in for me.

“I have no complaints about West Ham and I understand fully that they are doing well but I need to be playing games. It is down to the clubs and all I can do is play football and hopefully do well.”

Williams opened his account with a 50th minute goal at Coventry's Ricoh Arena from a Matt Richards pass.

He said: “I could not have asked for a better start, to get a start and to score a goal.

“It was brilliant. It was a great ball from Matt, although I didn't catch it that cleanly.

“I was delighted with how it went for me, although I was a bit disappointed with the final result.

“I need a couple more games to get full match fitness as I was feeling a bit tired towards the end.”

The Portman Road crowd should get their first glimpse of the new midfielder, who Royle sees as filling the void left by free scoring Tommy Miller, when he starts against Reading tomorrow.

Williams said: “The gaffer gives all the midfielders licence to get forward and that suits me.”

Royle said: “It was an outstanding debut from Williams and we have lots to look forward to there.

“He got into the box from midfield and we have not had that since Tommy Miller left.

“We are still looking for the right balance in midfield but I was delighted with Gavin.”

Adam Proudlock is expected to be fit for the Reading game after a sore knee, Sam Parkin will have treatment today after picking up a knock at Coventry, while Ian Westlake may have to settle for a place on the bench after a knock on an ankle set him back a little on Saturday.