IPSWICH TOWN: Blues manager Roy Keane wants to ensure he doesn’t sign any ‘Big Time Charlies’ as he remains patient in his quest to bolster his meagre squad.

“It was not that long ago that this club brought players in on high wages - and they did not try a leg,” said Keane.

“We have players here now on decent money, but not silly money.

“And we are not going to change that.

“But we need to get over the finishing line with our deals.

“I’ve done my part; the players I’ve spoken to have all wanted to come. And they are the sort we need.

“But then it comes down to contracts and money - from their current clubs as well - and it gets complicated. It is not easy.

“The club is trying and there is money available.

“I have let players go who could have contributed to us this season to free up our wage bill.

“But we are no further forward to any signings than we were last week.

“I am employed to guide the team through matches and have tonight’s Exeter game to concentrate on.

“I have to take a step back on signing issues with owner Marcus Evans and chief executive SimonClegg taking the lead. Please God we can get player or two in.

“With our current situation a defender, a midfielder and two attacking-minded players are who we are after, although having said that I would not lose any sleep playing our youngsters.

“But whether they are ready to play 40 games and get you promoted - I doubt it.”

Keane played a straight bat when asked about his interest in Ross McCormack and Jason Scotland saying that like Michael Chopra it is unfair to talk about other club’s players, but current discussions are believed to be underway with Cardiff over McCormack, who is available at �300,000.

And Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has confirmed Town’s interest in Scotland saying: “It’s fair to say there is strong interest there from Ipswich Town. A few other clubs have also asked us about Jason.”

Jon Walters is expected to lead Town against League One Exeter City at St james Park tonight (kick-off 7.45pm) with Keane expressing his pleasure at this - although he knows the 26-year-old is one way of raising extra cash if Stoke City make a suitable bid.

“It’s gone quiet on Jon,” said Keane. “And thank goodness.

“We’ve turned down very good offers for him and I feel comfortable when I see him leading out the team.

“With Jon playing you have always got a good chance and he was excellent on Saturday at Middlesbrough.

“Hopefully he’ll be patient in his quest for Premier League football - and achieve this with us. He will not leave until what we see as a realistic offer is received.

“And the same goes for Gareth McAuley and Connor Wickham.”

Keane has issued a welcome call to Town fans to watch his team train at Playford Road.

“The door is always open and fans are welcome Monday to Thursday,” he said. “We have only had around 50 so far over the last nine months or so. But there is no pfroblem.”