Darren Ambrose today delivered a welcome boost to Ipswich Town by revealing he has no plans to follow Jamie Clapham into the Premiership.

The teenage prodigy has been touted as a favourite to leave this winter after playing a starring role so far this season.

But, speaking in the wake of Clapham's £1.5 million transfer to Birmingham, Ambrose - linked with Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle - told the Evening Gazette: "I honestly haven't heard anything but even if there was something in the rumours I wouldn't want to leave Ipswich.

"I'd like to stay here for as long as possible, although I must say the timing of the speculation has helped boost my confidence.

"I'm not even in the team here at the moment and then when I pick up the papers I'm being linked with Liverpool, Arsenal and Newcastle.

"It's flattering because it confirms I'm a good player."

Fellow midfielder Clapham agreed personal terms for a three-and-a-half year deal with the Midlanders yesterday after meeting boss Steve Bruce on Tuesday.

Published Thursday, January 9, 2003

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