DAVID Sheepshanks today said more players could be brought in on loan as Town set their sights on promotion to the Premier League this season.

Elvin King

DAVID Sheepshanks today said more players could be brought in on loan as Town set their sights on promotion to the Premier League this season.

On the eve of one of the toughest home games of 2007/08 against Watford, the Ipswich Town chairman also revealed Marcus Evans could plough more money into the club next season if the Blues fail in their quest to go up in May.

Sheepshanks said if the Blues' push for the Premier League takes a dip over the next few weeks, new players will be recruited.

However, despite aiming for the Premier League this season, if Town remain in the Coca-Cola Championship, the man who is still the club figurehead said the chances of Ipswich going up will be even greater.

“We are in a position to bring in players on loan if the need arises,” said Sheepshanks, who added club owner Evans would consider adding to his £12million player investment if this was felt necessary to reach the Premier League.

“We have no plans at this moment to go into the loan market,” added Sheepshanks.

“But with a series of tough matches coming up, starting with second-in-the-table Watford at home tomorrow, we will see how results go.

“Then we will decide if there is any strengthening we need to do.

“Both Marcus and I are totally supportive of what manager Jim Magilton is doing, and he will have players in mind if we do look to bring in loans.

“We believe we can make the Coca-Cola Championship play-offs this season - and if so we will have a fantastic chance of promotion.

“But if not we will be in an even stronger position in 2008/09. We are on a one-way route.”

Sheepshanks also revealed that the money invested in the club by Evans will be used for football purposes only.

He explained: “It is important for fans to understand that we have to continue to run a tight ship.

“We have to keep costs to a minimum, and with expenses such as power supplies going up this has to be carefully watched.

“The £12million Marcus invested is just for player fees and wages as his goal is to reach the Premier League.

“He will consider additional player expenditure if it takes more money to reach the top flight.”

Looking back over the club's dealings in the transfer window, Sheepshanks said: “The manager brought in five seasoned and experienced professionals.

“He has strengthened the squad considerably as was shown at Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday.

“David Norris was the biggest signing by any Championship club last month. This demonstrates the intent of Marcus and the club to go forward.

“Two factors will decide whether we go into the loan market - form and injuries.”

After tomorrow's match Town visit in-form Crystal Palace on Tuesday with Stoke City and Southampton away also on the horizon.