Parkin out for four months

Proudlock will be looking to push into first-team

Parkin, Town's leader scorer, went off injured early in the Reading match. He later left Portman Road and scans today have revealed the worst, that the ankle is fractured.

With ony 24 hours until the Thursday deadline for loans before January, Royle stated that it was hugely unlikely that there would be time for a signing, although he did say he was waiting on one call.

It is likely however that Royle will have to make do with the strikers currently at his disposal. This will give Dean Bowditch and Adam Proudlock the chance to stake a regular first-team place. Academy graduates Knights and Clarke will also be looking to feature in Royle's plans. Meanwhile Dean McDonald, who is currently on loan at Hartlepool could be recalled, should Joe think it necessary.