Richard Wright looks set to miss his first match in 201 games for Ipswich Town after being rated "very doubtful" for tonight's (Tuesday's) Worthington Cup showdown with Coventry City.

The England goalkeeper is nursing a swollen wrist sustained in the 1-0 triumph against the Sky Blues last week and was unable to train on Friday.

He wore strapping in his left glove at Manchester City the next day - his 200th consecutive match for Ipswich - and suffered no adverse reaction after the 3-2 win.

But, with both Keith Branagan and Mike Salmon fit and waiting in the wings, Town boss George Burley has stressed he will take no chances.

He refused to indicate which of the two shotstoppers would replace Wright between the posts.

Burley revealed Jim Magilton (foot) and Mark Venus (ankle) are also "very doubtful" for the fourth round clash at Portman Road.

Martijn Reuser and Titus Bramble would be the likely candidates to return in their absence.

Burley said: "We know those who come in won't let us down. Our success this season has been a real team effort and that's very encouraging.

"Everyone has been working hard in training and those who haven't been regulars in the starting line-up deserve their chance.

"Although the Premiership remains our priority, we'll be going all out to win tonight and will be looking to take the game to Coventry from the start.

"I was particularly impressed with Mustapha Hadji and David Thompson in the League match at Highfield Road but we know tonight's game will be completely different.

"It was difficult for either side to get their passing games going then because the pitch was so slippery but we know our surface will be perfect."

Queues are expected to form around Portman Road tonight because tickets will be available on turnstiles for the first time this season. Fans are advised to arrive early.

John McGreal, meanwhile, who missed out at Maine Road after suffering a dead leg against Coventry, should be available for selection when Derby County visit Portman Road on Saturday.

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