IPSWICH are already fending off interest in defender Ian Miller from “several big clubs” just months after signing him from Bury Town.Miller has just completed a month's loan at League Two outfit Boston United and Ipswich have agreed to let him remain at York Street for a second month.

By Mel Henderson

IPSWICH are already fending off interest in defender Ian Miller from “several big clubs” just months after signing him from Bury Town.

Miller has just completed a month's loan at League Two outfit Boston United and Ipswich have agreed to let him remain at York Street for a second month.

The 22-year-old was plucked from the Ryman League side after impressing in a pre-season friendly against an Ipswich reserve side and in subsequent trials at Portman Road.

Now Miller's loan spell with the Pilgrims has brought him to the attention of a number of clubs who have spoken to Town boss Jim Magilton about the player.

Magilton said: “We are absolutely delighted with Ian and I have had several big clubs on to me about him after scouts have seen him playing for Boston.

“He has obviously been playing well up there, which is great news for all parties, and we still believe he can turn out to be a gem of a signing for us.

“We are happy for him to stay with Boston for another month. He is playing regularly, which is something we couldn't guarantee here for the time being. As for the interest that other clubs are showing, it confirms to us that we've got ourselves a good player. We certainly don't want him going anywhere else.

“Ian is a great lad. He has ability but he also has exactly the right attitude needed to progress in the game. He has the right appetite to progress.”

Miller made quite an impact upon his arrival at Portman Road to force his way into Magilton's first-team squad for the clash with West Bromwich Albion, although he is still waiting to make his senior debut.

Prior to last night's visit to Chester, he had made three league appearances for Boston and had not appeared in a losing side after home draws with Notts County and Hereford, as well as a win at Macclesfield. He was forced to sit out last month's FA Cup defeat at Bournemouth because he was cup-tied, having played for Bury Town at the preliminary stage of the competition.

Miller cost Ipswich a modest fee and as part of the deal Magilton has also promised to take a senior squad to Ram Meadow for a friendly fixture prior to the start of the 2007-2008 season.

He signed a deal through to the end of the current campaign that, based on his progress to date, is likely to be extended for at least a further 12 months.