GARETH McAuley has warned that Ipswich Town may find it difficult to hold on to Jimmy Bullard next season.

The 32-year-old is on loan from Hull City until the end of this season, and the player and Ipswich manager Paul Jewell have both expressed a desire in keeping the midfielder at Portman Road beyond the summer.

“Jimmy has scored a few goals and is improving his fitness,” said McAuley.

“It may be tough to hold onto him as top clubs will be seeing how well he is playing and how he is enjoying his football.

“He is happy here and he might want to extend his stay.

“Having Jimmy and Kieron Dyer here shows the intent that the club has with two Premier League players in the squad.

“When fully fit Kieron can set the Championship alight.”