DJ Campbell’s long-term future at Ipswich Town is linked with whether the Blues are in a relegation fight in the New Year.

The 30-year-old striker was an instant hit on Saturday, scoring on his debut against Cardiff City – albeit unwittingly with his hand before Town threw away their third consecutive 1-0 lead to make it four defeats in six.

Fans instantly warmed to Campbell, who replaced Michael Chopra after beleaguered Blues boss Paul Jewell opted to take last season’s top scorer out of the spotlight.

But while the QPR man is keeping an open mind on his future after signing for Ipswich on a three-month loan deal, the ambitious forward won’t want to leave a Premier League side for one struggling to maintain their nPower Championship status.

Campbell, who came close to joining high-flyers Blackpool before signing for Town 24 hours before making his debut, said: “I don’t think there is a view to a permanent deal in the loan deal itself, but anything can happen.

“I have come here to play football, I want to help the team do the best they can and push up the league.

“Whatever happens in January happens – it is not for me to say. I will just give it my all every time I play and we will see what happens.”

After a promising debut, Campbell could be in pole position to lead the line against Hull City when the Championship resumes on October 20.

This means Chopra, a similar striker, might have to be content with a place on the bench after his manager decided to drop him against his old club following the forward’s horse-racing charges.

With Town a point from the bottom of the Championship and four away from safety, Campbell added: “Confidence is a bit low but the performances have been good.

“We played the top-of-the-table team and outplayed them and should have won – that is a positive in itself. The fans have just got to stick with us.”