OWEN Garvan has pledged his future to Ipswich Town after winning his place back in the first team for last weekend's Championship game against Sheffield Wednesday at Portman Road.

Elvin King

OWEN Garvan has pledged his future to Ipswich Town after winning his place back in the first team for last weekend's Championship game against Sheffield Wednesday at Portman Road.

The 21-year-old midfielder had been out in the wilderness since August 22 and a number of clubs were reported to be interested in taking him on loan. He decided not take up a loan offer from Colchester United.

Garvan played the full 90 minutes in the 0-0 draw against the Owls and is expected to keep his place for Sunday's trip to Cardiff City.

“I want to now stay in the team,” he said. “Like any player I want to be out there on the pitch, playing games.

“My fitness wasn't too bad. I have played in the reserves and for Ireland, but you can't beat playing every week for match sharpness.

“I'm obviously glad to be back playing and hopefully I've done enough to stay in the manager's plans for the weekend.

“It was difficult being out of the squad and watching the lads travel away, but I've kept working hard and all I want to do is help the team and play a part in helping to push the club up the table.”

One of the clubs Garvan was linked with was Scunthorpe, but manager Nigel Adkins said: “I believe I have been linked with another player (Garvan) which is totally wrong.

“I have never spoken to Ipswich Town, and have I made an enquiry about him? No.”

With Garvan now back on the scene, Ipswich could soon have another midfield back in the first team scene.

David Norris, who was injured in the opening game of the season, could be back on the field at Cardiff.

“David might travel with us and be involved in the warm-up,” said Blues manager Roy Keane.

“We have missed his fire, and although we have to be careful with him hopefully he'll be back available for selection over Christmas.

“David has shown a great desire and shown himself up well.”

Luca Civelli, who has been out with a seriously damaged knee since last spring, may be a month or two away from a return.

“Luca has seen a specialist and been told to take it a bit easy for while,” said Keane, who confirmed defender Alex Bruce has suffered a groin injury.

“We will have more of an idea later in the week but it's a groin injury and it looks a similar one to last time."

Former Town player Darren Currie has joined Dagenham and Redbridge on a two-month loan from Chesterfield while former Blues striker Neil Woods is the new manager of Grimsby, having previously been youth coach at Blundell Park.

elvin.king@archant.co.uk