Ipswich Town defender Gary Croft was expected to make his comeback for the reserves this afternoon.

Croft was only released from prison on Monday but was expected to play for the second string against Gillingham at Portman Road today.

It is thought the former England Under 21 defender, who served four weeks of a three-month prison sentence, will become the first professional to play wearing an electronic tag.

Despite his early release, Croft's movements are still being monitored by the prison authorities but he is able to play for Town during his period of rehabilitation.

pswich manager George Burley, who has just returned with the first team squad from a four-day break in Tenerife, is keen to see him back in the fold as quickly as possible.

He said: "Gary has been training all week while we have been away but he is in good spirits and eager to start playing again.

"The main thing for him now is to concentrate on his football and fight for his place in the first team."

Town skipper Matt Holland is expected to sign an extension to his present contract within the next two weeks.

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