Forgotten man Nabil Abidallah is gearing up for his 'make-or-break' season at Ipswich Town.

The pint-sized midfielder, handed a free transfer by Blues boss Joe Royle, has just returned from a trial period with Swiss side FC Thun.

And, although he enjoyed the experience, he is determined for one last crack at Portman Road glory.

Abidallah, who only made one appearance as a substitute last season, told the Evening Gazette: "Thun are a division one side and I enjoyed the experience but I feel I can do better for myself.

"I'm confident I can play at a higher level and I'm desperate for one last chance to impress at Ipswich.

"That's why I'm going to give 120 per cent from now on and work especially hard in pre-season. It's make-or-break time for me because I'm reaching a stage in my career where I need to be playing regularly."

Abidallah, 20, has been given a free transfer because cash-strapped Ipswich are keen to offload many of their fringe players.

Published Friday, May 23, 2003

Brought to you by the Evening Gazette