Andrews poised to join Tractor Boys

BLACKBURN’S Republic of Ireland international midfielder Keith Andrews is expected to join Ipswich Town on a season-long loan prior to the start of the Championship season on Saturday.

The 30-year-old was at Portman Road earlier in the week to speak to Tractor Boys boss Paul Jewell and has opted for a move to Ipswich ahead of a number of Championship sides, including Leeds and Nottingham Forest.

Ipswich and Blackburn are expected to continue talks regarding the terms of the loan today with the deal likely to be concluded in time for the Dubliner to line-up for the Blues when they visit Bristol City for their opening game of the season on Saturday.

Former MK Dons man Andrews is contracted to Blackburn until 2013 but made only three starts and three sub appearances last season and is not in manager Steve Kean’s plans.

Meanwhile Derby have signed Ireland international Kevin Kilbane on loan from Championship rivals Hull while Burnley have wrapped up the signing of Keith Treacy from local rivals Preston for an undisclosed fee.

Preston accepted a ‘significant offer’ for Treacy after previously rejecting three bids for the Republic of Ireland international.

Treacy, who started his career at Blackburn, has agreed a three-year deal at Turf Moor after passing a medical.

Treacy admits it was a difficult decision to leave Preston for Burnley but one which he had to make.

“I enjoyed my time at Preston. Their relegation was unfortunate, but I’m looking to better myself as a player, have the best career I can and play as many games as I can for Ireland.”

Leicester City manager Sven Goran Eriksson has confirmed Shane Long is one of his targets, but feels the Reading striker may move to the Premier League. Long has attracted interest from several clubs during the summer, with West Ham United having had a £7m offer rejected.

West Brom and Celtic are also understood to be interested, and Eriksson feels a deal to bring Long to the King Power Stadium will be difficult.

“He may end up in the Premier League so it will be difficult, but he is one we have worked with,’’ said Eriksson. “We are working on it and it would be a dream to take in someone who can score over 20 goals.’’