ALAN Mahon today admitted he was shocked to hear he was being recalled by Blackburn Rovers.

The Republic of Ireland international was busy preparing for Ipswich's clash with West Ham when he heard that his loan spell with the Tractor Boys was being cut short prematurely.

Now the 25-year-old could be thrust straight back into Premiership action for the first time this season after Graeme Souness confirmed that the midfielder will be in his squad for this afternoon's clash with Middlesbrough.

But although the former Sporting Lisbon star is ready to sweat blood for the cause, he's revealed that he would be keen on returning to Ipswich one day if his second chance at Rovers doesn't work out.

"This has come as a bit of a shock. I have made no secret of how much I have enjoyed myself at Ipswich," said Mahon.

"The supporters, the players, the staff and the media have all be absolutely brilliant to me.

"I was looking forward to playing at West Ham for Ipswich and it seems strange now that I won't be but that's football.

"You never know what is around the corner but I really hope that one day I will be back there."

Souness had little choice but to recall Mahon after injuries had robbed him of both David Thompson and Steven Reid for the Christmas period.

The Rovers boss has confirmed that he will go straight into the squad for today's clash with Middlesbrough and Sunday's trip to Newcastle.

And the fact that he's a natural left-footer could well give Souness more options out wide.

"It's all very confusing at the moment," said Mahon.

"If he has called me back to actually play then fair enough. I'm contracted to Blackburn and I will do my very best for them.

"But it is no secret I was happy at Ipswich and want to be playing for Ipswich.

"Perhaps something will still be sorted out."

Ipswich boss Joe Royle, who was disappointed to see Mahon return to Ewood after he had much such a big impression at Portman Road, added: "My hands are tied and we have no choice.

"It was a phone call I'd been dreading for a few days and Graeme was very apologetic but I totally understand."