Republic of Ireland and Blackburn midfielder Steven Reid is expected to return to training next week after six months out with a cruciate knee ligament injury.

The 25-year-old ruptured the ligament in a training-ground accident in January.

Rovers chairman John Williams told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I spoke to Steven yesterday and he told me he's feeling good so, all being well, he should be able to join in with the rest of the group from Monday.

"The physios have said he's done ever so well to get himself back in contention this quickly.

"It's particularly pleasing to have Steven back because he also missed four months of last season with a back injury, before he injured his knee, so he's been out for the best part of a year."