FOOTBALL: Ipswich Town are expected to include a number of big names in their side for tonight’s Suffolk Premier Cup final against Needham Market at Portman Road (kick-off 7pm).

Manager Roy Keane said that those who did not feature on Saturday are in line with the fit again Alan Quinn and fellow midfielder Owen Garvan both mentioned as likely starters.

“The lads left out on Saturday will all be involved against Needham,” said Keane.

“It’s a chance for them to get a game, and like every one that we play we’ll be looking to win.”

Ridgeons League Needham are seeking a notable treble as they are also looking to win the Premier Division and the Ridgeons League Cup with a final against Kirkley on May 3.

They were beaten by Lowestoft Town in last season’s Premier Cup final, and manager Danny Laws continues to bring success to Needham with a place in level four football next season the main aim.

Former Town midfielder Kevin Horlock will be playing against his former club, and he has nothing but praise for Needham keeping his playing career going.

“Thanks to Needham I’m got the same appetite for the game as I’ve always had,” said Horlock.

“And in Danny Laws we have an exceptional manager.

“I’m amazed that he hasn’t moved up to the Football League.

“I’ve worked with many coaches in my career and Danny is up there with the best of them.”

Needham had no game at the weekend but they trained on Saturday morning and Horlock was involved in the ‘Legends’ Ipswich Town versus Norwich City game at Great Yarmouth yesterday.

He says that Needham could be in for a hiding, but is not expecting one.

“On our day we can put on a good show,” he said. “But if we do get turned over it will an experience for our young players and it has to be good to be playing against the best players around.

“Our main aim is to advance up the football ladder and to follow Lowestoft’s example.

“The Ridgeons League is notoriously difficult to get out of, and we feel we can do ourselves justice if we do.”

Needham have a full squad to select from and general manager Mark Morsley added:

“With our ambitions to move up a certain amount of expectation has brought it’s own pressures.

“At times we’ve found it difficult to relax and play but I am sure at Portman Road that will be a very different situation.

“It’s a great occasion for all involved with Suffolk non league football.

“Ipswich reserve team manager Steve Foley is a good mate of mine and we have had a bit of banter.

“It will be great to shake his hand on the Portman Road pitch and then nick the trophy from under his nose.”