Ipswich close to Diallo signing

Last updated : 02 June 2003 By Tony Scholes

Driss Diallo on his Burnley debut, ironically against Ipswich
Although they are still not allowed to sign players manager Joe Royle has admitted that he has already spoken to the Guinea international defender and today told the Ipswich Town web site, "I’ve been in discussions with Driss for a while now and would love to make him my first signing here.

"He is a powerful defender, strong in the air and as brave as they come and is just what we need after conceding too many goals last season."

Ipswich, the club Andrew Watson so wanted to model Burnley on, are another club who have managed to wipe out a lot of debts by going into administration and now will be able to use those savings to do their best to tempt Diallo away from Turf Moor.

Burnley Chairman Barry Kilby said today that he was against any plans to deduct points for teams going into administration citing the fact that punishing clubs who are struggling to survive would be wrong.

It will be interesting to know what Barry’s views would be should Ipswich use money that should really have gone to creditors to entice Diallo into a contract at Portman Road.