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"Certainly they've got forward players that we all envy, with Jon Macken coming back over Christmas added to Andy Johnson, Clinton Morrison and Dougie Freedman.
"With that sort of fire power you can expect them to improve in the second half of the season. But I expect us to improve as well."
Ipswich are still without; Parkin (ankle), Proudlock (knee), Clarke (Elbow) but McDonald returns from his loan spell to bloster Royle's limited attacking options and midfield pair, Garvan and Westlake are both pushing for first team places, after being hampered with injuries.Kevin Horlock has been out with a knee injury of late but could get a shock recall into the team for the Eagles clash, though he has only an outside chance.
New signing Vermunnd Brekke Skard is still recovering from groin surgery but would of been inelligible anyhow, he will be able to play officially from January 2nd.
Iain Dowie has Emmerson Boyce suspended and Danny Butterfield in the treatment room.
Marco Reich and Jobi McAnuff are both on the return from injury, however and could feature.