Thomas Gaardsoe has the pedigree to become a top-class international with Denmark.

That was the glowing assessment from Ipswich Town boss Joe Royle, reflecting on the inspired form of his stylish centre-half.

Gaardsoe has been touted as a possible international after helping to drive his side to the fringes of the play-offs.

And Royle, who has coaxed the best out of his great Dane, told the Evening Gazette: "I've no doubts he can become a top-class international.

"Thomas has all the right ingredients and is a real footballing centre-half.

"He was a bit down when I first arrived but since then he's come on leaps and bounds, to the extent he's now one of the first names on the team-sheet.

"I'm delighted for him and I know he can go on to play in the Premiership hopefully with Ipswich."

Meanwhile, Gaardsoe has revealed his delight after Ipswich's clean-sheet against Preston on Saturday.

Despite their vastly improved form of late, it was Blues' first in the league since winning 2-0 at Watford in November.

And he told the Evening Gazette: "From a defensive point of view, it was a great feeling walking away knowing we'd done a solid job."

Published Tuesday, January 21, 2003

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