Blackburn Rovers vs AFC Bournemouth preview - Rhodes should make Rovers squad

Posted Friday, August 22, 2014 by PA

Blackburn are hopeful Jordan Rhodes will be in their squad for his 100th Rovers appearance against Bournemouth despite the striker being courted by Hull.

Rovers boss Gary Bowyer publicly revealed the Tigers' interest on Thursday but insisted he was preparing as though his star striker would be in his squad on the Saturday.

Midfielder Corry Evans is a doubt after landing awkwardly in the latter stages of Tuesday's 3-1 defeat to Norwich.

None of Rovers' other injury concerns will make it back in time for the Cherries' visit with striker Chris Brown (knee), defender Matt Kilgallon (back) and full-back Tommy Spurr (groin) all still sidelined.

Bournemouth are sweating on the fitness of right-back Simon Francis for the trip.

The 29-year-old missed Tuesday night's 2-1 loss to Nottingham Forest with a hamstring injury and Adam Smith is ready to deputise once more if Francis is not passed fit to feature.

Fellow defender Elliott Ward is still struggling with a swollen knee and may also be sidelined for the clash with Rovers.

Summer signing Junior Stanislas will hope to keep his place ahead of Mark Pugh having been given the nod for his first Cherries start against Forest in midweek.