IPSWICH Town assistant manager John Gorman today denied he has the Midas touch.

Elvin King

IPSWICH Town assistant manager John Gorman today denied he has the Midas touch.

But he confirmed his fondness for the Blues and that he has seen enough to want to stay at Portman Road long-term.

The Blues go into their Coca-Cola Championship game with Plymouth Argyle at Portman Road tomorrow (kick-off 3pm) on the back of three consecutive away league wins - and a highly commendable performance at Premier League Chelsea.

Since Gorman was appointed just before the New Year Town have remained unbeaten in the league and moved into play-off contention, and three points against the Pilgrims could put them into seventh place.

The former England coach says that he does not deserve any credit for the current revival.

“Manager Jim Magilton deserves the credit,” Gorman said. “I watched the performance at Coventry in the 2-2 draw on December 20 and this is why I came.

“It has just been a continuation since then. I am just here to help and have only seen positive things since my arrival.

“It was exciting for me to come to a club like Ipswich, and I would be delighted to still be here in 12 months' time.”

Gorman admits that Ipswich's home form needs addressing, starting with Plymouth, although he knows it will not be easy against the west country side that flew to East Anglia today.

“It is harder sometimes to play at home,” said Gorman. “I am not saying that Plymouth will, but teams have been coming to Portman Road to stop us playing.

“I know Paul Sturrock well and had his son Blair play for me at one time. I have a great respect for him.

“Paul is a proven manager and his teams are always hard to beat - and tomorrow will be no different.

“In this league there are no easy games and after some good results tomorrow could kick us in the teeth. It would be nice to get a good start and the fans can help.

“We have talked about a home game, but have not had much time with Chelsea and then travelling to Barnsley and then having Wednesday off.”

Ipswich have Ivan Campo and Moritz Volz injured, but otherwise have a full squad with Magilton not expected to tinker much with the side that won 2-1 at Barnsley on Tuesday.

Gorman's Golden Touch:

Town's five games before his arrival Bristol City (h) won 3-1, Cardiff City (h) lost 2-1, Coventry (a) drew 2-2, Birmingham (h) lost 1-0, Derby (a) won 1-0. Played 5, won 2, drew 1, lost 2.

Town's five games since his arrival Chesterfield (h) won 3-0, Sheffield Wednesday (h) drew 1-1, Crystal Palace (a) won 4-1, Chelsea (a) lost 3-1, Barnsley (a) won 2-1. Played 5, won 3, drew 1, lost 1.