HIS own future might be shrouded in uncertainty.

But Nathan Ellington has called on the Ipswich Town powers-that-be to do all they can to keep Jay Emmanuel-Thomas at Portman Road.

While far from the finished article, the former Arsenal man has shown flashes of his undoubted talent, winning over Town fans with a decent second half of the season.

That has led some to speculate that Emmanuel-Thomas could be in line for a return to the Premier League just a year after moving to Suffolk.

Fulham were last weekend linked with a move but Ellington, who has placed doubt over his own future at Ipswich, believes JET must be kept at all costs.

Ellington said: “Even at the start of the season in some reserve games I could see his ability to create something from nothing and his power shots from distance.

“He’s a very confident lad as well and that certainly helps to succeed at this level. You need to believe you can do anything to anyone - and that’s what he’s got.

“He’s one of our best players as he’s proved this season and one of those the club has to keep if we’re to push for promotion. It goes without saying he needs to stay and if he carries on producing the same performances next season, we’ll be in good shape.

“He’s certainly got great potential and one to watch for the future for sure.”

Ellington believes his team mate, who will be hoping to move into a more central spot next season, is destined for the top – but hopes that will arrive with Ipswich.

In an interview with sportinglife.com, the former Wigan man added: “The ability he’s got allows him to take on anybody and he’s got the eye for a pass as well. He can only improve and has the tools needed to play in the Premier League, definitely.

“He told me that being around the Arsenal team helped him a lot with his game. He will listen to any advice from more experienced players and take it on board to help him improve his game.”

Ellington was quoted as saying he might have to leave Ipswich, whether on loan or permanent, in order to get games after a thoroughly disappointing first year with Town.

But he feels the club is in good health to mount a top-six challenge next sdeason, adding: “Aaron Cresswell has come on really well having cemented his place at left-back while I’ve also been impressed by Josh Carson and Luke Hyam, who has come through the youth ranks and are doing well.

“Players like Lee Martin and Carlos Edwards are also important to us. We’ve got a lot of talented players at the club and if we can just add to the squad in certain areas this summer, we’ll do well next season.”