Boss Roy Keane has confirmed that he will be taking his players away on a warm weather training camp during pre-season. TWTD reported last month that Keane was set to take the squad to Spain or Portugal to a resort such as the La Manga Football Centre as part of the squad's preparations for 2009/10.

Keane told the club site: "We are looking at a training camp for a few days. It's all about getting the fitness levels up and getting the players switched into the mindset we want.

"Obviously we want to get through pre-season without any injuries, that's also vitally important. We need to have everyone fit and well and peaking for the Coventry game at the start of the season."

Keane is pleased with the list of friendlies he has arranged for his squad: "I'm delighted with the way our pre-season has fallen into place. We've got a nice mix of games with matches against local opposition and the trips to Ireland as well, so it will be a good challenge for the players.

"The Finn Harps match is quite early after we return to training, but often you have a practise game four or five days back into training, so it will be no different and we will be careful how we use the players.”

Elsewhere, former Town academy defender Lee Beevers has joined Colchester United on a free transfer from Lincoln City.

Hearts are the latest side linked with ex-Town striker Shefki Kuqi, who looks certain to leave Crystal Palace this summer despite being offered new terms at Selhurst Park.

Sunderland are reported to be close to signing Kuqi's former strike partner Darren Bent. The England frontman is said to be on the verge of a £10 million move from Spurs.

Cardiff have put a £5 million price tag on central defender Roger Johnson after strong interest from Birmingham. Town made an enquiry but no bids regarding the former Wycombe man last summer before signing Gareth McAuley, but with Premier League sides chasing him further interest this year seems unlikely.

Meanwhile, Town's Community Trust is opening a Player Development Centre for six to 14-year-olds in Thetford.

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