IPSWICH Town manager Paul Jewell has revealed what his plans are for next season.

He wants to have 20 top outfield players who will all be fighting for a first team place.

He explained: “At the moment we have a void.

“We have our senior players and then a gap to first and second year professionals. There is an imbalance in the squad.

“Next season I want 20 top outfield players who are proven at Championship level and ready and able to go into the first team.

“And under that another squad that will be in effect be a development squad.

“In fact, I’d be happy to see some of my younger players go out on a season-long loan next season to toughen them up and add to their education.

“With the reserve league we play in having no edge it is like the lads are still playing academy football with little tackling.

“And if young players don’t play they get used to doing nothing – training every day and then going home.”

The number of young players out of contract in the summer runs to double figures and a number have been given an indication of what to expect when D-Day arrives.

“I’ve spoken to some of them,” added Jewell.

“And they are aware of their situations of what may happen to them.

“I’ve been impressed by all the youngsters and they train hard.

“But they are not being tested and I’d like to see them in a real game where it means something.”

Jewell was happy with the referee in Saturday’s draw at Leeds, who was on the end of some choice words from Leeds boss Simon Grayson in the first half.

“The referee was good. I think he stood up, because you know what Leeds are like, every time the ball goes in the box they want a penalty.”

And speaking of Kieron Dyer’s return he added: “He will be better for the 73 minutes.

“I didn’t really plan to play him for that long, but he showed flashes of skill and quality in a game that probably didn’t suit him.

“I thought he stood up well to the pace and toughness of the game.”