Seven-out-of-10 man Cole Skuse is one of the first names on Mick McCarthy’s team-sheet

So says Mick McCarthy, the Blues boss insisting that the 28-year-old – who has started all but 14 games since arriving at the club in the summer of 2013 – deserves a whole lot more credit than he gets.

Speaking ahead of tomorrow’s Championship game at Fulham, McCarthy said: “I’ve never been anything but impressed with Cole Skuse.

“I think he was a little bit maligned at certain stages because he’s that continuity player; he gets it, he gives it, he tackles, he heads it. He’s seven out of 10 every week.

“He’s not going to catch the eye like Teddy Bishop does by going past four or five players and then sliding the ball in, but when Teddy Bishop tries that and it doesn’t come off, and the opposition break on you, then it’s Skusey that’s picking the bits up.

“Or, when Tyrone Mings bombs forwards and crosses, and the keeper catches it, throws it out and they break on you, then it’s Skusey who is the one that clears the mess up.

“Those are the sort of players that don’t get all the plaudits from the public, the media, the television outlets and whoever. But they do from their own team-mates.”

Skuse, a Bosman-free transfer addition from League One side Bristol City, was particularly impressive during Tuesday night’s 2-1 home win over Sheffield Wednesday.

McCarthy added: “His stats are consistent on his passing, tackling and heading – all the disciplines that he has to do in the team. For me, he is penned in the team week-in, week-out because of his performances.

“He’s been a really good signing for us. He’s low maintenance too, in terms of the way he conducts himself around the place. He’s good for everybody else.”

Town have striker David McGoldrick available again, following a once-match absence with a thigh problem, for tomorrow’s game at Craven Cottage.

McCarthy says no loan additions are imminent at Portman Road, the Blues boss quashing national reports linking the club with a move for Leeds midfielder Rudolph Austin.