IRISH defender Graham Gartland is being touted as the answer to Ipswich Town's current defensive woes.

By Derek Davis

IRISH defender Graham Gartland is being touted as the answer to Ipswich Town's current defensive woes.

Blues boss Jim Magilton is determined to bring in players with character and desire after Ipswich slumped to their fifth straight away defeat with a 2-0 loss at Leicester City.

With cup-winning medals at Drogheda United and Longford Town, the centre-half has been extensively watched by Ipswich Town and reports in Ireland suggest the Championship, club are close to making a £400.000 move for him.

Magilton last night denied they had spoken to Drogheda as yet but admitted he was one they are keeping tabs on.

The 24-year-old, who played in the same Republic of Ireland B team against Scotland as Alex Bruce and Jon Walters, has attracted interest from a number of English clubs after spending spells as a youngster at Barnsley.

After coming off second best to a City side that showed more desire and belief Ipswich are in need off some battlers and Magilton is looking forward to being able to do business in the transfer market that opens next week.

He said: “We want the players to go out and show a desire to win away. That was arguably our best 11 and on our day our best 11 weren't good enough.

“We have an opportunity to go out in January and bring one or two in but those one or two have to show a character and resilience that we want at this football club.”

Ipswich dropped out of the play-off places and even though they have been unbeatable at home, Magilton believes it is not good enough.

He said: “We can't be considered credible top-six contenders. To be that you have to be able to pick up points away from home to be anywhere near the top six and we are not doing that yet.”

Magilton was not happy at the way both goals were conceded with Richard Stearman and Patrick Kisnorbo heading in free kicks from Stephen Clemence.

“Both goals against us were very disappointing. Stephen Clemence has a great left peg and showed a great delivery with quality.”