George Burley believes patience will be the key to Ipswich Town beating Southampton at Portman Road.

The Blues boss has urged fans not to be complacent ahead of Saturday's clash, especially after the setback of losing to relegation-haunted Derby County in their last home match.

Southampton are currently languishing sixth from bottom in the Premiership, compared to Town's lofty perch of third.

But Burley warned: "Expectations are sky-high among fans but they must realise it will be a difficult game and certainly no foregone conclusion. We need them to be patient.

"Derby were a side content to sit back and hit us on the break and that was frustrating because it was difficult to break them down.

"I don't expect Southampton to pack their defence like that, though, which will suit us because it should be a more open game."

Burley revealed that both Titus Bramble (ankle) and John Scales (hamstring) are doubtful for the visit of Glenn Hoddle's troops.

Wing-back Fabian Wilnis, who has received five bookings this term, will miss out through suspension so Gary Croft is standing by.

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