Ipswich boss McCarthy hopeful of ‘a few new players’ in time for Bolton clash

McCarthy, speaking during his pre-match press conference, confirmed he has been in discussions regarding potential incomings this week and that deals are close.

The Blues boss once again insisted any incomings will be loan deals but wouldn’t be drawn on the identity of the player, when asked if Brighton defender Connor Goldson remained a possibility.

“I’ve been on the phone, trying to organise a couple of things,” McCarthy said.

“There is (one close) and I’m hopeful I will have someone in for Saturday.

Brighton and Hove Albion's Connor Goldson is a player Mick McCarthy has asked about. Photo: PA (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

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“I wouldn’t speak to you about individuals, if it happens it happens,” the Blues boss added when asked about Goldson.

“Whatever happens will be loan deals.”

In an interview with the club website, McCarthy added: “I’m hopeful we will have a few new players in before the weekend.”

Adlene Guedioura of Middlesbrough has been linked with a move to Ipswich Town. Photo: PA (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

As well as Goldson, the Blues have been linked with moves for Cardiff’s Anthony Pilkington, free agent David Cotterill and Middlesbrough midfielder Adlene Guedioura.

McCarthy also admitted defender Tommy Smith could be allowed to leave the club this month, with Colorado Rapids interested, but his departure will only be sanctioned once a replacement has been found.

“You know there is some interest in him but we will just wait and see,” McCarthy said.

“They (Colorado Rapids) are interested but I wouldn’t sanction any move for him until I got somebody in who could play there.

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“I think it’s just an opportunity for him that he would like to explore, certainly. He wants to play, that’s the upshot of it and he wouldn’t be playing in front of Chambo and Adam Webster.

“He’s at an age where he wants to play in the first team and if he gets a chance to do that he’d like to.

“He’s had a tough time over the last little while but he’s back, he’s fit and training.

“If it does happen it would be an end of an era but everything comes to an end.”