Boss Jim Magilton has confirmed that he is still looking for a loan defender despite Pim Balkestein and Ben Thatcher making progress as they recover from their injuries.

The Dutchman, who has had a groin problem, could be back in reserves action at home to Southend on Tuesday, while Thatcher, who tore a calf muscle in the game against Wigan, is still a few weeks away from a return, but is set to step up his training this week.

Magilton said: "Pim coming back gets us back on an even keel in regards to left-sided defenders, but I still feel we need cover as we are not sure about Ben.

"We are still asking clubs if we can get one or two of their players, but I don't blame them for not wanting to let good players go.”

Earlier in the week, Stoke's Ryan Shawcross was again linked with the Blues and Derby County.

The Town boss has also confirmed that second-choice keeper Shane Supple is coming into his thoughts with Richard Wright having made a number of mistakes this season: "Shane is very close to playing because Richard has been indifferent.”

Supple's only first team game this year was the Carling Cup match against Leyton Orient.

Elsewhere, Town associate director Michael Spencer has reportedly lost almost £500 million in the recent financial turmoil. Spencer, whose wealth was previously estimated at around the £1 billion mark, owns around 15% of the PLC which holds a 12.5% stake in the club since last year's takeover by Marcus Evans.

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