IPSWICH Town defender Troy Brown has a special reason to want to retain his place in the side – he’s a mad keen Arsenal fan.

The 20-year-old has done well as Tommy Smith’s central defensive partner in the last two matches, and he’s hoping to keep his place for this afternoon’s Championship visit to Preston (kick-off 3pm).

“It would be unbelievable to face Arsenal,” said Brown, who joined Town in the summer of 2009 after being released by Fulham.

“I supported them as a kid and it would be a dream come true to play against them.”

And Brown is confident that his partnership with Smith, 20, can blossom.

“We’re the same age and we’re learning our trade,” added Brown, who made his Welsh Under-21 debut last month.

“We get on well both on and off the field and I believe we’ve already got the makings of a good partnership.

“He’s helped me and I like to think that I’ve helped him a bit in the games that we’ve played together.

“We kept a clean sheet against West Brom and were solid in the opening half against Swansea last Saturday when Brian Murphy only had one save to make.

“The second half was disappointing, but I feel I’ve done okay although there is room for improvement.

“It was horrible losing to Swansea as after the victory over West Brom the dressing room was buzzing and we were all anticipating another good result.”

And Brown refutes suggestions that you cannot enjoy success with a team of youngsters.

“Yes, you need some experience in the team but to say that you cannot win anything with kids is not right.

“The advantages can outweigh the disadvantages with more energy being shown.

“We’re digging deep after five league defeats and with the manager fighting for us we are fighting for him and he has given no impression of being under any extra pressure.

“Of course we want to manager to stay and a win at Preston would be good for everybody.

“I’m looking forward to it - the game gives us a chance to turn things around.

“They’ll be no extra nerves although the adrenaline will be running high and that can get you through big games.”