9:54am Wednesday 25th November 2009
By Matt Plummer
Roy Keane believes teenage sensation Connor Wickham is at the best possible club in Ipswich Town.
The Colchester-based striker appears to have the football world at the feet amid reports he is being tracked by the “Big Four” of Manchester United, Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.
Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have also been linked with the 16-year-old, who cannot sign a professional contract until his next birthday in March.
However, despite the intense speculation, Town boss Keane believes the club’s young star should continue his football education at Portman Road.
“At least he’ll get an opportunity and play first-team games here,” said Keane.
“Sometimes young players at big clubs get a bit lost, because there’s so many good players there.
“But he’s already played first-team games, he trains with us and it’s a good club for him.
“He’ll get a chance here, but we can’t stop speculation.
“We can’t stop the big clubs going out and buying the best young players.
“That’s the way of the world but this is the best place for him to get his education.”
Wickham was an unused substitute in Saturday’s 0-0 disappointing draw at home to Sheffield Wednesday.
Meanwhile, defender Alex Bruce is a doubt for Sunday’s trip to Cardiff City.
He has suffered a recurrence of the groin injury he suffered earlier in the season.
The Irish international had to be replaced by Gareth McAuley just before the hour-mark against Wednesday.
Goalkeeper Richard Wright is set to return for Sunday’s game, following Portsmouth’s decision to recall Town loanee Asmir Begovic.
Pompey want the Bosnian international back to cover for the injured David James.
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