Jason De Vos has had an unusual week.

Normally, with the international programme in full swing, the Canadian would have globe-trotted to some far-flung destination, played 90 minutes for his country and then reported back to Ipswich Town.

But not this time. Instead, the defender settled down to watch Wednesday's TV highlights of Canada's 1-0 win in Northern Ireland.

While De Vos, 31, avoids using the word 'retirement', he admits he has probably played his last game for Canada.

And that, he firmly believes, could pay handsome dividends for promotion-chasing Ipswich.

He said: "I've told the management I'll help out if they have a game and need experienced players.

"But I understand that the younger lads need to be grounded and I'm happy to take a back seat. I'd be lying if I said it hadn't been a bizarre week, though."

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Published Friday, February 11, 2005

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