LEWIS Price missed Ipswich Town's embarrassing 3-0 defeat at Stevenage Borough last night, as a precaution against injury with a move in the offing.The arrival of Neil Alexander, who was not named in last night's 16 but warmed up with Shane Supple before the game, has alerted a number of clubs to Price's availability.

By Derek Davis

LEWIS Price missed Ipswich Town's embarrassing 3-0 defeat at Stevenage Borough last night, as a precaution against injury with a move in the offing.

The arrival of Neil Alexander, who was not named in last night's 16 but warmed up with Shane Supple before the game, has alerted a number of clubs to Price's availability.

Derby County are the first to admit an interest although they have not yet tabled a formal bid. Billy Davies will only make a move for Price if Lee Camp moves to QPR and not stay to challenge the recognised number one Stephen Bywater.

Blues boss Jim Magilton last night admitted he was protecting Price and is not planning to play him against Chelmsford City tonight.

He said: “There may be one or two things happening with Lewis. I will talk with him in the morning (Wednesday) and we will see then. We don't want Lewis to get injured as things could be happening. While Premiership football will no doubt appeal to Wales international Price he will not be guaranteed the regular first team football he craves.

Another Town player who could still be on his way out is Alan Lee with Hull City understood to be ready to test Town's resolve and improve on their £600,000 second offer.

Magilton said of the defeat: "Everyone is disappointed after getting beat like that but it was a worthwhile exercise.”