Ipswich in dark over Derby interest in Stead

Ipswich boss Roy Keane insists he has not had any contact with Championship rivals Derby over the future of striker Jon Stead.

The Rams have been linked with a loan move for Stead but the former Sunderland manager does not believe a deal is close.

He said: "No-one is close to leaving, though of course that could change very quickly.

"There have been one or two calls to the chief executive at the club.

"I've heard nothing about Jon Stead and Derby County, though it wouldn't surprise me because I left him out of the squad on Saturday. It would not surprise me if there were enquiries."