PAUL Jewell today reassured Ipswich Town fans that he has a team already in place with the ability to take the club into the Premier League.

He leads his mid-table side into Championship action this evening at the Cardiff City Stadium (kick-off 5.20pm) in a match being show live on Sky Sports TV.

Just one point from the last three games has put a dampener on optimism that accompanied 14 points from the six previous league games.

But Jewell, who took over from Roy Keane in early January, insists he has already got his team in place – his backroom team.

Although he will be striving to sign the four or five players he has targeted to have in the building by the time the 2011/12 campaign kicks-off he has no worries about his off-field staff.

He brought in Chris Hutchings to be his number two after working successfully with him at Bradford City and Wigan Athletic and also took onboard as coach Sean McCarthy.

Along with fitness coach Antonio Gomez and goalkeeping coach James Hollman, they are working with Jewell to bring success back to Portman Road.

“Some people underestimate the importance of staff members,” said Jewell.

“I certainly don’t.

“We work in tandem and all have our parts to play.

“Terry Burton is assistant to Dave Jones at Cardiff City and he’s been outstanding.

“I remember when he was manager at Wimbledon and he quipped ‘This managing lark is okay – apart from the games!’

“We’re working towards next season when we know we need to improve on the field.”

Jewell knows that his team has three tough games inside the next eight days although Reading may be a tad distracted by their up-coming FA Cup quarter-final when they visit Portman Road on Tuesday.

Next Saturday Town visit another promotion contender Leeds United.

Jewell has not ruled out bringing in a loanee or two before the deadline on March 24, but he said:” I only want someone who can improve us and we have made some enquiries.

“But at this time of the season clubs have their eyes on Europe, the play-offs or perhaps relegation.

“And Premier League players are not always easy to attract out of their comfort zone. I don’t want players coming here just to do us a favour.”

Which players would you like to see Paul Jewell sign before the start of next season? Let us know – e-mail starsport@eveningstar.co.uk.