Defenders in the News.

[Alan75]

Vratislav Gresko

Rovers hope to complete the signing of Vratislav Gresko before  the transfer window closes.

It is understood that the Slovakian defender will arrive at Ewood Park tomorrow for a medical, and that if things go to plan, Sounesss may include him in the squad to play Villa on Sunday.

This could be a timely signing for Souness, with the imminent suspensions to Todd and Neill, and Bergs on going injury, Rovers have further defensive problems due to Short picking up a calf injury.

Souness has reportedly stated that Gresko can play either centre-half or full-back and will give him the options he have been looking for.

Jay McEveley

As reported on this site yesterday Rovers young defender Jay McEveley has been called up for the England U20 squad to play Germany on the 6 February, However Rovers have been given permission by the FA to withdraw him due to Rovers FA Cup replay with Sunderland on the 5 February. Rovers have also gained permission to withdraw McEveley from the U20 World Championships, because Souness has indicated that the young defender is very important to the club and very much a first team player.

Rovers will however release Jay for an international tournament in Toulun this summer.

Lucas Neill

Further international news was evident at Ewood Park today with the call up of Rovers full back Lucas Neill to the Australian squad to play England at Upton Park on the 12 February.