Norwich City vs Blackburn Rovers - Wes Hoolahan could return for managerless Norwich

Posted Saturday, March 11, 2017 by PA

Wes Hoolahan could return as Norwich start life without Alex Neil by facing Blackburn.

Neil was sacked on Friday evening, with a statement saying it was "in the best interests of the club for a new manager to be in place through a crucial summer transfer window and into next season."

Neil had rested Hoolahan for what turned out to be his final game in charge at Bristol City in midweek, but caretaker Alan Irvine may recall the Republic of Ireland international.

Centre-back Timm Klose (back) is another who will be assessed ahead of the game but midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu (thigh) continues his recovery, while forwards Nelson Oliveira (broken foot), Graham Dorrans (knee), Matt Jarvis (hamstring) and Louis Thompson (Achilles) are all sidelined.

Tony Mowbray will take a similar squad to Norfolk as he attempts to maintain his unbeaten start as Blackburn boss.

Corry Evans (groin) has been in full training for a week now and could be considered for a behind-closed-doors game next week as he looks to build up his fitness having not played in over two months.

Striker Sam Gallagher is fine despite receiving a knock shortly before coming off in midweek when Hope Akpan made his first appearance under Mowbray following suspension.

The new manager is unlikely to change a centre-back pairing of Charlie Mulgrew and Darragh Lenihan even though Tommie Hoban (shoulder) and Elliott Ward (ankle) are fit again.