IT will be a case of second time lucky when David Unsworth completes his move to Ipswich next week.The 31-year-old defender, who is joining on loan from Portsmouth for the remainder of the season, was keen to join Town last summer.

IT will be a case of second time lucky when David Unsworth completes his move to Ipswich next week.

The 31-year-old defender, who is joining on loan from Portsmouth for the remainder of the season, was keen to join Town last summer.

But the financial position at Portman Road was not strong enough at the time and the former England player instead made the switch to the south coast.

Town boss Joe Royle revealed: "I had a call from David's agent in the close season to ask if I would be interested in signing him.

"Having worked with him at Everton, and knowing what he could give us, I would have welcomed the chance. But it wasn't on financially."

But the pair will soon be reunited, after Ipswich supremo David Sheepshanks met his Pompey counterpart, Milan Mandaric, in London last week.

Royle added: "Portsmouth made it known they were having a bit of a change-around down there and that David might be available.

"When the chairman told me, I said 'yes' straight away. Apart from knowing what he can give us as a player, he's a solid citizen.

"He gives us extra cover in two positions, we've got Drissa Diallo on the way back, Daniel Karbassiyoon and Jimmy Juan have come in and we've got a lot more strength around us."

There will be no more new arrivals at Portman Road – either permanent signings or players on loan – this season.

Royle confirmed: "That's it now, we have our squad in place for the final 16 games. We are no longer lightweight in terms of numbers.

"There was a certain amount in the kitty and it has been spent. In fact, with the increased optimism around the club, we have pushed it to the absolute limit. Nobody can say we're not having a go."

Should Town suffer more than usual from injuries and suspensions, they will turn to their talented youngsters to plug any gaps.

Royle added: "This is still a club where youth counts. Young players will still be given a chance as and when we feel it is necessary."

The Town boss was speaking from Tenerife, where he and his players have been based since Sunday. They are returning to the UK today.