Contract talks have been opened by Ipswich Town in a bid to secure the future of Richard Wright at Portman Road.

The Blues want to tie their England goalkeeper to a long-term deal because his current contract expires in the summer.

Wright would only sign a one-year extension last summer because he wanted to see how his home-town side fared in the Premiership.

But, with the club currently flying high in third position, Town are hopeful their long-serving shotstopper will commit himself for seasons to come.

Town boss George Burley said: "Richard is one of a number of players we're speaking to at the moment about signing new long-term contracts.

"It's an ongoing thing. Jamie Clapham, Wayne Brown and John McGreal have committed themselves recently and we're very hopeful Richard will do the same."

Jonathan Barnett, Wright's agent, added: "There is a long way to go because our talks are only at an early stage.

"But Richard has been very impressed by the season Ipswich have enjoyed so far.

"The way the side has played will be a big factor in making up his mind."

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