Former Ipswich Town striker Ian Marshall does not think the Blues will go gung-ho against rock-bottom Rotherham this weekend, despite the return of David McGoldrick and the visitors’ woeful away form.

The Millers have yet to pick up a point from seven away games in the Championship this season and are eight points from safety already.

However, Town have only scored twice in their last seven outings, both against Burton Albion in the recent 2-0 home win.

McGoldrick returned as a substitute at Newcastle last weekend – his first appearance for over two months – and talked this week about forming a potentially fruitful partnership with Leon Best.

Whilst such a combination and Ipswich’s other offensive options give hope to their entertainment-starved fans, Marshall believes Town boss Mick McCarthy will opt against going for the jugular.

“The fans want to see a positive result first of all and there will still be some nerves around the place after last weekend’s result,” said Marshall.

“I don’t think Mick (McCarthy) will go gung-ho, he will be tight at the back and hopefully Ipswich can get an early goal. That can then maybe allow them to be a bit more adventurous.

“It’s a must-win game and it should be won because Ipswich are a better team than Rotherham.

“Other than Newcastle, no-one has steamrolled Ipswich and most good teams are built on a good defensive structure.”

McGoldrick and Best have not played together since their Southampton days, the former adding: “Leon is a good player. He’s strong, he’s brings others into play and he can score goals as well. He has got everything, he just needs a run of games which he is getting now, after not having a pre-season.”

McGoldrick’s fitness will be key to Town’s play-off chances and Marshall added: “When fit he is one of the most skilful and entertaining players in the Championship.”

Meanwhile, Town striker Monty Patterson, 19, has joined Braintree Town on a month-long youth loan and made his debut as a substitute in Iron’s 3-2 win at Woking on Tuesday.