TOMMY Miller last night dented Blues hopes he will be signing for a third time this summer, while at the same time leaving the door open for a future return.

By Derek Davis

TOMMY Miller last night dented Blues hopes he will be signing for a third time this summer, while at the same time leaving the door open for a future return.

The midfielder, who moved to home-town club Sunderland last year on a Bosman free transfer, admitted that a piece of his heart was still at Portman Road but was keen to stay at the Stadium of Light and help them bounce straight back to the Premiership.

Miller last night said: “Although we didn't have a good season and none of us were happy, I'm keen to stay.

“We really believe we have a chance of bouncing straight back up and I want to be a part of that. I have a year left on my contract and am not looking to jump ship.

“At the moment things are up in the air with talks of a takeover and we have yet to see who the new manager will be, so things might change.

“Certainly I'm delighted to hear from you that Joe Royle is keen on signing me for Ipswich again and there is no doubt I love the place.

“I had some great times at Ipswich but at the moment my place is with Sunderland. Although you never know in football, maybe one day I will be back for a third time.”

Royle admitted former Blues Miller and Jamie Clapham, among others, had crossed his mind but nothing was imminent.

With Miller still contracted to Sunderland for next season and on very good wages, Royle conceded it was unlikely the midfielder would be returning to Portman Road.

Royle said: “We don't know what Tommy's situation is just yet.

“We don't know if he is available or anything and no one will really know that until after Sunderland get their new manager in.”

Leeds United and Southampton are also known to be keen on Miller, although if he were edged out at the Stadium of Light, his affection for Portman Road may help Town.

The Jamie Clapham situation may be a bit simpler with the defender a free agent after being released by Birmingham City.

Again, Clapham has a deep affection for the Blues and Royle, and he could be within Town's reach financially, and his wife is from Suffolk.

Royle said: “I have spoken to Jamie's agent and asked to be kept informed of his situation.”

Another defender looking for a club after being released by Wigan is Stephane Henchoz, although his wage demands may test Town's resolve.