This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Ipswich Town continue to set the pace in League One, with Paul Lambert's side four points clear at the top of the table without a league defeat so far this season.

One major factor in recent weeks has been the form of on-loan defender Luke Garbutt, who is finally starting to make an impact with three goals in five appearances, having joined in the summer on a season long loan deal from Everton.

So should the Tractor Boys look to sign Garbutt on a permanent deal after such a superb start to his loan spell?

We discuss.........

Luke Phelps

"After missing out of much of August and September, Luke Garbutt has returned to the Ipswich team and showed why he’s so highly-rated at this level.

"Three goals in five League One appearances as a defender is unheard of, and Paul Lambert will be desperate to make his stay at Portman Road permanent.

"That might not be as hard as first thought, as at 26, he’s unlikely to be wanted by his parent-club Everton following his loan-spell in League One.

"His contract at Everton expires in May next year, and Ipswich will be first in-line to acquire his services - they’ll have to pray for Championship football next season though to lure him over."

Ned Holmes

"Absolutely, I think that should be high on their list of priorities.

"Garbutt has been a fantastic addition for the Tractor Boys and has helped them climb to the top of League One.

"Things have not gone the 26-year-old's way at Everton, so you have got to imagine that he would be interested in moving to a club where he has found some excellent recent form.

"The only real issue I can see is Championship competition poaching Garbutt if Ipswich fail to get promoted–but at this point that doesn't seem likely."

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Chris Thorpe

"This should be a no-brainer for Lambert, as it is clear that Garbutt will never make a career for himself at Everton because of the presence of Lucas Digne.

"Garbutt has been a great signing for the Tractor Boys this season, showcasing not only his defensive skills, but also his goal scoring touch, particularly from direct free kick situations.

"With the wide man now into the prime years of his career, it seems like a good idea to make the deal permanent and secure one of their key players for the long term.

"It will be interesting to see if Lambert dips into the transfer market for any other recruits this January, however I think getting Garbutt on a permanent deal should be the priority for the Scottish boss."