ANDY Drury believes he will be a Championship player next season – even if it’s not with Ipswich Town.

The midfielder is fast approaching the end of his current contract, with manager Mick McCarthy putting renewal talks with all of his players on hold while the side continues to battle against relegation.

Drury’s future is very much in the balance following a stop-start campaign.

The 29-year-old – who previous boss Paul Jewell signed from non-league side Luton Town in January 2011 – has made 19 starts and nine substitute appearances.

It’s been that way throughout his time at Portman Road, with the hard-working and versatile midfielder always proving a useful squad member but never quite establishing himself as a regular starter.

“I haven’t heard anything about my contract,” said the former hod carrier. “I think it’s just a case of waiting until we’re safe. Hopefully, we’ll finish in a mid-table position and we can sort it from there.

“I’m used to having one-year contracts. It doesn’t bother me. I just get on with it.

“So long as I’m match fit I think I’m a good Championship player. I’ve got confidence in my ability. Hopefully I can stay at this level for a few more years.

“I don’t want to drop down. No footballer does. I’ll just have to see what happens in the summer.

“I think I’m good enough to stay at this level. We’ll just have to see if it’s with Ipswich.”

He added: “It’s been frustrating for me at times because all I want to do is play football. I’m not very happy when I’m not in the team.

“Fair play to the manager, though. He’s approachable and honest and likes to stick with the same team when it’s doing well.

“I got a virus over Christmas, Luke (Hyam) came in and, to be fair to him, he fully deserves his chance in the first team because I think he’s a great player.”