By Aston
October 9 2006

On-loan West Ham midfielder says he is enjoying his stay at Portman Road although he has hinted at not returning in the new year.

Marks loan expires at the end of next month and because of the rules governing loan moves he can’t return to Portman Road until the new transfer window opens in January.

 

Mark: “I'm really enjoying it, the main thing is that I am playing every week and, because of that, I am starting to feel sharper and can see that my performances are getting better and better.

 

“Ipswich are a good footballing side and, having come from West Ham, everyone knows that I like to get the ball down and play, so that was one of the big reasons for going there on loan.

 

“Jim Magilton, the manager, was also a midfield player, and I get on really well with him. He has taught me a few new things since I've been at Portman Road, and I'm really learning a lot from playing regularly in the Championship.

 

“The loan is due to finish in late November, so we will see what happens then, at the moment, I just want to play as many games as I can, really build my match fitness and show people what I can do.

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“I certainly feel I am getting more out of this loan spell than I did at Hull last season, and I think being nearer home helps. Ipswich is only an hour up the A12, so I can come back to see my family and friends whenever I want, and that is a big bonus.

 

“Obviously my ultimate aim is to come back to West Ham and get in the first team here, but I realise there are a lot of midfielders in front of me and it's better that I am playing regularly every week rather than sitting up in the stands waiting for my chance.

 

“If I do well at Ipswich, then hopefully Alan Pardew will notice me and, who knows, maybe I will get my chance, but for now I am just happy to be where I am and enjoying my football.”

 

Source: West Ham – the official website

 

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