WEST Ham are showing no interest in recalling midfielder Mark Noble to Upton Park.The Hammers can recall Noble on Sunday after the Birmingham match as part of his loan move to Ipswich but if not he could stay until as long as January.

By Derek Davis

WEST Ham are showing no interest in recalling midfielder Mark Noble to Upton Park.

The Hammers can recall Noble on Sunday after the Birmingham match as part of his loan move to Ipswich but if not he could stay until as long as January.

There is a possibility a new deal could be struck and Noble will be allowed to stay until the end of the season but that subject has not yet been broached.

The 19-year-old, who scored the equaliser against Coventry City on Tuesday, is enjoying his time at Portman Road and is in no hurry to return just yet.

Ipswich Town chief executive Derek Bowden said last night: “There has been nothing to indicate that West Ham will ask for Mark to return but that could change in an instant as we know.

“West Ham have assured us that they would only recall Mark if they really had to and there is nothing to suggest they have to.

“Anything could happen between now and then but we are hopeful Mark will continue his loan spell with us.”

The Blues are hoping that should Noble have to return in January they will have players capable of stepping into the role.

Bowden said: “Owen Garvan should be back by then and we also have Martin Brittain who could be ready before then.”

Simon Charlton and Jon Macken are also on loan spells and while Charlton are bound to want Walton back in the new-year, the Crystal Palace striker has the chance to earn a permanent contract with the Blues.

Blues boss Jim Magilton has indicated movement in and out could happen before the weekend with a defender to cover for Alex Bruce's absence the most likely incoming action.

Danny Haynes, Matt Richards, Dean Bowditch and Darren Currie, are among those who could be loaned out.

derek.davis@eadt.co.uk