Duffs Return to Fitness

[Alan75]

Rovers winger Damian Duff is set to play his first competitive match since been injured against Manchester United in the second leg of the Worthington Cup semi final at Ewood Park on the 22 January.

Duff has been included in the reserve squad to play Villa reserves tomorrow night at Villa Park, and should he have no reaction after the game, there is a good chance he will be available for Rovers next premier league game against Arsenal at Ewood Park on Saturday the 15 March.

Duff's return to fitness will also be a major boost to the Republic of Ireland coach Brian Kerr as he prepares to face Georgia in a World Cup qualifier later this month.

Further good news on the injury front is that, Craig Short and  Dwight Yorke should also be available for the Arsenal next week.

On the down side Thompson and Ostenstad will not have recovered from their respective injuries in time for the Arsenal game, whilst Lucas Niell will not be available due to suspension.