KENNY Jackett has denied today’s signing of Josh McQuoid signals the end of Millwall’s interest in Swindon striker Charlie Austin.

The Lions today signed the Northern Ireland international striker on an emergency loan deal and the move is set to be made permanent in January, with Millwall reportedly having agreed to pay AFC Bournemouth more than half a million pounds.

Jackett had two bids rejected by the Cherries earlier in the week but it was a case of third time lucky as he finally got his man.

But despite the latest striking addition, the manager told News Shopper it didn’t mean the Lions had given up hope of rekindling their interest in long-term target Austin when asked.

He said: “I wouldn’t say so because we’ve looked at a number of players.

“We are pleased to add Josh but will we look to keep adding in the future?

“Of course we are always looking and looking to improve if we can.

“In the last week we’ve added Jason Puncheon, Calvin Andrew and Josh McQuoid and I think in terms of our creative play and our play going forward, they add a lot to us and give us a nice balance.”

Jackett also anticipates McQuoid will feature in Saturday’s game at Preston.

He said: “I expect him to be involved on Saturday but I don’t know whether he will train today before we get everything done.

“There is no reason why he shouldn’t be involved on Saturday if things go to plan.

“Josh is a young player with a lot of potential, he is 20 and has an eye for goal.

“I like his brightness and I like his potential for the future.

“He has just made his debut for Northern Ireland last week when he came on as a second half substitute.”

Millwall will be searching for two consecutive away wins in the space of a week when they head to Deepdale on Saturday and Jackett is challenging his side to match last weekend’s display at Middlesbrough.

He said: “Preston have created a lot of chances and always look like scoring goals but similarly the other way they’ve conceded quite a lot as well.

“It will be a home game for them and they are fighting for their lives.

“Preston are an established Championship club with a good tradition but we set some standards last week at Middlesbrough and we need to keep to those.

“I’m looking for more of the same from my side because it was a good performance.”

Jackett is set to discover today if Chris Hackett, Kevin Lisbie and Danny Schofield have shaken off their injuries before deciding whether to include them in his squad for the trip to Lancashire.

Scott Barron is available for selection again after completing his suspension.