HUDDERSFIELD Town are looking to sign 19-year-old Jordan Rhodes on a permanent basis.

Elvin King

HUDDERSFIELD Town are looking to sign 19-year-old Jordan Rhodes on a permanent basis.

But Ipswich Town manager Roy Keane last night stressed that the striker was in his plans to play on Friday when the Blues take on Spanish club Real Valladolid at Portman Road.

League One Huddersfield's interest comes just three days after Rhodes scored against Colchester United and committed himself to Town for the season.

Keane revealed that he had turned down a bid last week for the precise finisher who spent much of last season on loan.

“Jordan had a twinge in the morning and I did not want to take any chances with him,” said Keane. “Everton wanted to keep Wayne Rooney, but if an offer comes in sometimes they are accepted.

“Things change in football. But Jordan is an Ipswich player and hopefully he will be fit enough to be considered for Friday's game.

“There has been interest in him from two clubs. But it would not be fair to say which clubs.”

Reports in the north suggest that Huddersfield are confident of landing Rhodes but Keane appears as though he wants to keep the forward.

Keane was happy with last night's display despite losing 2-1 at Charlton Athletic.

He said: “I enjoyed it. We did not start to play until after they had scored two goals, and the youngsters will learn from that.

“It was nice to see them out there on the pitch.

“They all did well although we look to have suffered another injury, with David Wright having a scan on his damaged ribs.

“Lee Martin and Liam Trotter had hamstring twinges and Damien Delaney - like Jordan Rhodes - also suffered a niggle.

“Shane O'Connor got caught out for the first goal but he showed a good attitude and I was pleased with him.

“I can see him playing in midfield, but he did well at left-back for us.

“With games coming thick and fast I had to give some players 90 minutes still because of our injury situation.

“We have to share the load and this was a good test for the boys.”

ITFC Blog: Keep your hands ON Jordan, Keano!