IVAR Ingimarsson has urged Paul Jewell to bring in a fourth centre back – even if it puts his own place in jeopardy.

Town’s Icelandic centre back started alongside Damien Delaney in Saturday’s opening match of the season, but the perilous state of Paul Jewell’s defensive options were highlighted when the Irishman limped off in the second half during the 3-0 win at Ashton Gate.

This leaves Town with just two fit central defenders, meaning Jewell will have no choice but to play the 33-year-old against Northampton Town in tomorrow night’s Carling Cup first round match.

But Ingimarsson, who will partner Tommy Smith, believes another new recruit will be the perfect tonic to keep everyone on their toes.

He explained: “Healthy competition is very good. You know you have to play well and the team has to get results for you to play in the next game.

“Where I have played before, there has normally been four centre halves. Also if you have four, you can cope with injuries or whatever comes up.

“The season is 46 games – it must be the longest season in the world – there is loads of stress and loads of things that can happen on that long journey.”

Blues boss Paul Jewell has made no secret of the fact that recruiting a fourth centre back is his top priority and hopes to add another to the ranks this week.

In the meantime, Ingimarsson is learning to gel with both Delaney and Smith, adding: “Me, Damien and Tommy are the three of us here and things have been very good. We just try and talk together and try to understand each other’s game.

“For me, defending is all about helping each other. Pre-season is about getting a good understanding and with time and practice, things should get better and better.”