Loan deal solves problem

By Derek Davis

ADAM Proudlock has been cleared to play for Ipswich Town after signing on loan from Sheffield Wednesday until the end of the season and could make his debut against Reading on Sunday.

The Blues, along with Wednesday and the Professional Footballers' Association, cleverly used the rules to ensure Proudlock would be able to play for Ipswich.

Although FIFA ruled Proudlock could not sign for another club once his contract with the Owls had been terminated, because the PFA had appealed in the first instance, the player's sacking was suspended and, therefore, he was still a Wednesday employee.

Town agreed to take him on loan from the Hillsborough club and the Football League ratified the deal.

Blues boss Joe Royle last night said: “A lot of work has been done at this end with the PFA and Sheffield Wednesday and I'm delighted we have managed to resolve this.

“We have been waiting for the deal to be rubber-stamped by the Football League and we will see how he is this week before deciding whether to put him in the squad to play against Reading this weekend.”

The 24-year-old striker is due to appear in court in Telford today on a drink-driving charge but Royle has warned Proudlock that he has to be on his best behaviour.

Royle said: “Adam knows this is his last chance. He will get all the help and encouragement he needs but it is down to him and I'm sure he is well aware of that.

“I spoke to people about him and no one has said a bad word about him and he has worked hard since he has been with us and earned a contract.

“As far as I'm concerned, he is a good player who has a good record of goals-per-starts. He is quick and strong and can score goals. I remember him from when he played for Wolves and I know he is a good player.”

His signing came too late for him to play in last night's reserve game against Southampton.