James Scowcroft has joined Town on loan until the end of the season after it emerged that Shefki Kuqi's injury will see him sidelined for longer than first anticipated.

The Finnish international had surgery to clean out a wound above his knee after being carried off just before half-time in the 2-1 win over Leicester on Saturday.

Speaking to the Club website, Town boss Joe Royle said: "At first we thought Shefki would be out for three to four weeks but it looks as though it will be longer than that.

"He's got a puncture wound and there will be muscle damage after surgery so we are looking at the big man being out for at least a month, probably longer.

Shekfi celebrates his goal against Leicester

"With Shefki out we knew we had to bring someone in to fill that role and it's no secret that we have been interested in James for a while.

"The deal was done over the weekend and he is with us for training today and will be here for the rest of the season."

James, who was in the Leicester side at Portman Road at the weekend, is out of contract at the Walkers Stadium this summer.

He made 247 appearances for Town after coming up through the ranks at the Club before joining the Foxes in 2001.

The Club website will be carrying an exclusive interview with James later in the day.