IPSWICH TOWN: Blues iconic manager Roy Keane has questioned what he sees as harsh media treatment and issued a ‘Don’t panic’ message to supporters.

He is looking to see his team get back to winning ways in the Championship after three straight league defeats when they play Millwall at Portman Road today (kick-off 3pm).

“Unlike some managers I do not have pals in the media nor did I arrive at Ipswich with my own public relations team,” said Keane.

“I know I am a public figure and I understand that.

“But other managers can go two or three months without a win and still hide under the radar.

“I lose a few games and all of a sudden jobs are at stake.

“Does beating Northampton on Tuesday in the Carling Cup make me a genius? No I’m not Sir Bobby Robson – I’m 39 with a great deal still to learn.

“But just because we lose one or two matches its not that I don’t know anything.”

Keane says that most Ipswich fans will look at the bigger picture but others might get led by the media.

“I know where I want to take this club, but how much time will I get,” he queried?

“I’m pleased with what we have done being in the Carling Cup quarter-final and three points off the play-offs.

“Plus we have brought on some of our younger players and I think we’re doing okay.

“We’ve had seven poor days, and that’s not a reason to panic.

“Judge me at the end of the season please – and that’s the chairman, chief executive and supporters.

“I’m told that the average lifespan of a Championship manager is 18 months to two years – I thought it was less than that.

“My pressure is on getting a result against Millwall and I know that you can’t keep losing – but we’ve had just seven bad days.”

Goalkeeper Ian McLoughlin has joined Ryman League Premier Division Lowestoft Town on a month’s loan and will be playing for the non-leaguers in their FA Trophy game at Chippenham Town today.

Republic of Ireland youth international McLoughlin, 21, finds himself behind Marton Fulop, Brian Murphy and Lee-Barrett in the pecking order at Portman Road.

The Ipswich Town Supporters Club are staging a special evening with chief executive Simon Clegg - and a member of the coaching staff - next Thursday at 7.30pm at the Legends Bar, Portman Road.

Entry is free with the evening beginning with the annual general meeting of the Supporters Club. Last season manager Roy Keane put in an appearance and answered questions form the floor.