Ipswich Town boss Mick McCarthy eyes versatile defender

Mick McCarthy has conceded that he would like to add a versatile defender to his Ipswich Town squad before the end of the transfer window.

As is stands, Luke Chambers, Christophe Berra, Tommy Smith, Jonathan Parr and Jonas Knudsen are the only senior defensive options available to McCarthy at Portman Road.

With that in mind, the former Republic of Ireland boss has expressed his eagerness to recruit a defence-minded player that can operate in a variety of positions.

"We're a bit thin on the ground with defenders, to be honest with you," he told reporters.

"If I could get a versatile defender from somewhere who could play left-back and centre-half, or right-back and centre-half, cover a couple of positions, that's the sort of player I'd be looking for."

In recent days the Tractor Boys have been linked with Hearts youngster Jordan McGhee.