HUNGER to play regular football and a desire to be happy rather than a hefty salary would be Richard Wright's motivation if, or when, he returns to Ipswich Town.

By Derek Davis

HUNGER to play regular football and a desire to be happy rather than a hefty salary would be Richard Wright's motivation if, or when, he returns to Ipswich Town.

The EADT reported on Monday that Wright was poised for a return to the Blues after his contract with Everton runs out this summer.

While no deal has been finalised, Blues boss Jim Magilton has no concerns about Wright, or any player, having a second spell at Portman Road, if they are doing it for the right reason.

Magilton said: “Players going back to a club can work if that player has a real hunger and is not just coming back to graze. John Wark did it here and Ian Rush at Liverpool. They are exceptional players, but their mentality was right.

“Richard Wright gives me the impression of someone who is desperate to be playing again. His career has hit a bit of a brick wall and at 29 he wants to get it back on track.

“It is not always about money, it can be just be about appreciating what is on offer and being comfortable in your surroundings. “It would be a new lease of life for him. Warky came back and didn't rest on his laurels, because he loved playing.

“Richard always gave me the impression that he loved the game when he was here and he has the appetite. He was a local lad who made good, and the supporters loved him. We missed him when he went and I know George (Burley) didn't want to sell him - but at the same time he never wanted to stand in anyone's way.”

However Magilton concedes that if he brought in an experienced keeper like Wright, then either Lewis Price or Shane Supple would be knocking on his door looking for a move - although he dismisses suggestions that an offer has already been tabled for the Wales international.

“There has been no deal done for Lewis at all. He has an injury and that's why he has not been playing, that's it. I have spoken to both of them about the situation and if nothing was to happen about getting an experienced keeper in, then I would be more than happy with both.

“I'm sure these two guys will mature and be better for it. They will only get more experienced by playing games, and we have seen then get better and better.

“If we did get another keeper in they would be banging the door down asking for a loan move at least, and rightly so, because they want to play.”

While Magilton is looking to add to his squad, he would not be overly concerned if any prospective deals for goalkeepers didn't come to fruition. He said: “Both of them have been great for different reasons.

“Lewis has matured and his performances have come on leaps and bounds. Shane has shown a lot of character and a terrific attitude in training. For the first time in his young life, he has been under a bit of pressure.”

Three other ex-Town players have constantly been linked with a return to Ipswich with Tommy Miller, Matt Holland and Titus Bramble all out of contract at the end of June.

Miller, who was within hours of rejoining the Blues on loan until a keeper crisis reared its head and Mike Pollitt came in, only to be recalled to Wigan, is set to leave Sunderland. Preston are favourites to sign him after he had a successful loan spell there.

Holland is waiting to hear if he will be offered a new deal by Charlton Athletic, while Portsmouth, Birmingham and Aston Villa are all keen on Newcastle defender Bramble, who looks destined to stay in the Premiership.