IPSWICH TOWN: The Blues are doing all they can to keep their players as fresh as possible before tonight’s Championship game at the Keepmoat Stadum against Doncaster Rovers (kick-off 7.45pm).

The match was originally scheduled to take place on December 28 but was postponed the previous day because the pitch was frozen solid.

The re-arranged date sees Town travelling back north to play their second game in Yorkshire in four days.

They returned by coach on Saturday night from their 1-1 draw with Barnsley at Oakwell and flew back north yesterday afternoon.

“We are doing all we can to limit any problems that may be caused by tiredness,” said Ipswich manager Paul Jewell.

“It might not be ideal, but I’m sure we’ll cope well enough.

“Don’t feel sorry for us we’re all getting well paid.

“We trained on Sunday and again yesterday and will spend today in and around the hotel before playing the game and flying back tonight.”

Six of Jewell’s squad were involved in international matches last week, and with a number of games coming up thick and fast this might have a bearing on the manager’s team selection as he looks for a quick-fire double after beating Doncaster 3-2 at Portman Road on January 22.

To help guard against weary bodies, Jewell is looking to bring in one or two loan players before the weekend and he says that he should have more information on Thursday.

“I can’t say too much,” added Jewell. “But I would like to get a player or two into the building by the time we play Hull City at Portman Road.

“We didn’t bring in too many players during the January transfer window and although I’m happy with the squad I would like a bit more competition for places.

“We are watching around 20 games a week with our network of scouts.

“Unless a senior player expresses a wish to leave I don’t foresee ant leaving us although one or two kids might perhaps go out on loan to gain valuable experience.”

Jewell confirmed that he had heard nothing from Derby County when asked about reports that the Rams had shown an interest in taking Damien Delaney on loan.

Jewell has confirmed that long term he will be looking to play a 4-4-2 system, but as things stand right now he feels that 4-3-3 suits the present requirements.

“With the personnel we have at the moment I want to see three players in midfield although pitch conditions at Barnsley on Saturday were perhaps not conducive to that,” added Jewell.

“Traditionally I’m a fan of two wide players and two up front and try to get balls into the box.