Ipswich Town manager Paul Jewell has blamed Grant Leadbitter's indifferent form so far this season on transfer speculation.
The Blues captain had been the subject of a bid from Portsmouth in August and Jewell believes that Pompey's interest has been detrimental on the 25-year-old's performances.
"I think he has been unsettled. In fairness to Grant, he cares greatly about his own game and the team," Jewell told the Green'Un.
"I think he is as disappointed as anyone and maybe he is just taking that disappointment out - but it is not a sulking thing."
Leadbitter will be out of contract at Portman Road at the end of this campaign and Jewell also revealed that talks will take place soon.
"Both myself and Grant haven't spoken about the contract. When you have been beaten five and seven, there are more pressing things to worry about than one player's contract," the boss added.
"But we do need to sit down and have a chat and we will do soon."
The midfielder joined Ipswich in 2009 from Sunderland.
Liam Apicella
