IPSWICH boss George Burley believes Blackburn Rovers can still make the promotion play-offs - and he should know.

For Ipswich have missed out on a Premiership return too many times for comfort in the annual end-of-season showdown in recent years.

This time, the Suffolk side are hoping to snatch an automatic place but Burley won't be surprised if Rovers do transform their season and finish in the top six.

"There are a number of teams with an opportunity to get in there and Blackburn have a good side," said Burley. "This is a tough league but they have so many good players and I think they will be there at the end."

Although his team only picked up a point, after losing at home on Saturday, Burley was more than happy with the Ipswich performance against a Rovers team he rates.

"The first 45 minutes was as well as we have played all season," he said.

"We played some great stuff, hit the post, hit the bar and I couldn't fault our play against a very good Blackburn side.

"I am sure they haven't been dominated like that all season. So I am disappointed about only having one point but I am pleased with the performance.

"There were so many opportunities and it would have been nice to get a goal but it wasn't to be.

"You don't always get what you deserve in football but it is important for me to keep the standard going.

"We are in second place with everything to play for.

"We know it's going to be very difficult to finish in the top two but the boys are bang in form and we are looking forward to Saturday."

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