IPSWICH TOWN: Has Jon Walters played his last match for the Blues?

This will be the big talking point when the side is announced before this afternoon’s opening home npower Championship game of the season against Burnley at Portman Road (kick-off 3pm).

Having been a virtual ever present in manager Roy Keane’s side since the former Republic of Ireland international arrived at the club in April 2009, Walters was the subject of a severe dressing down after telling his manager that he wants a move.

Walters, who has made 146 appearances for Town since signing in January 2007, is a big favourite with the majority of Ipswich fans.

But if he is left out today then the chances of him getting back in favour with Keane would appear to be remote.

Walters is expected to join Stoke City and get his wish to play in the Premier League and set himself up for life financially with a three-year deal worth over �1million in wages each year.

Ipswich have turned down all bids for 26-year-old Walters so far, but Keane says that if one meet Ipswich’s valuation then he will be happy to see Walters go.

From praising his skipper all last season and at the weekend when he said that he felt re-assured everytime he saw Walters at the head of the team in the tunnel, Keane now appears to have washed his hands on a player who obviously wants to leave Portman Road.

“Jon has had his head turned,” said Keane.

“I have told him he can go and I will lose a minute of sleep over it.

“He did very well at Middlesbrough last Saturday and he is still captain as we speak.

“And if he plays against Burnley I’m sure that he’ll 100 per cent.”

Walters made a point of saying in a pre-season interview with the Evening Star that he was supporting the manager in what he was doing. He never once went as far as to say that he was still backing him.

If he’s missing today - with David Norris no doubt taking over the captaincy - it will be the end of an era.

But if Ipswich carry on their winning ways then his departure - with a bounty of �3million to spend - will soon be forgotten.

Town have arranged their Carling Cup second round tie at League Two Crewe for Tuesday, August 24 with a 7.45pm kick-off.