Matt Richards is ready for a battle to get back in Ipswich Town's first team - especially following the capture of David Unsworth.

The young full-back has been on the substitutes' bench in recent weeks following the loan signing of Danny Karbassiyoon from Arsenal.

Now Blues boss Joe Royle has further boosted his defensive options by bringing in experienced former Everton and England man Unsworth.

And Richards, back from Town's mid-season training break in Tenerife, told the Gazette: "It's a bit frustrating when people are signed to play in my position.

"But I'm treating it as a positive because competition for places is a good thing. If anything, this has made me more determined to work harder and get better and better.

"I'm desperate to get back in the team and I really want to improve."

Published Wednesday, February 2, 2005

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