Charlie Mulgrew is continuing to train like every day is his last, according to Tony Mowbray, as the defender looks to work his way back in to the matchday squad.

Mulgrew returned to Rovers last month after cutting short his loan spell with Championship rivals Wigan Athletic.

He hasn’t played since the beginning of December because of a calf problem, but injury free, he is training with the squad, but yet to force his way back in.

Mowbray looks set to continue with the partnership of Darragh Lenihan and Tosin Adarabioyo for now, while Derrick Williams is also in reserve.

And while the manager wouldn’t write off the 33-year-old’s chances of featuring before the season is out, but opportunities for now look limited.

“He’s been training, he’s good,” Mowbray said.

“I’ve always said that Charlie is a joy to train on the training pitch, what a professional, what a guy. He trains like every day is his last.

“I explained to Charlie, at this moment Adarabioyo and Lenihan are a decent combination and Charlie understands that. He’s back in the fold, working hard, and we’ll see how we go as we move on.

“I’ll never write anyone off. I’ve been asked about (Richie) Smallwood in the past, he’s still here and nobody gets written off, they work hard every day, train with the team, they are awaiting their opportunity if it comes.

“If it doesn’t then hopefully they’ll continue in as they are, muck in and do the work as everyone else.”

Mulgrew started on the opening day for Rovers before being loaned to Wigan where he played a further 13 times.

“He’s fine. He’s trained really hard, I’m not sure how long he missed with his calf injury, maybe three or four weeks, you don’t lose your season’s fitness over that time,” Mowbray added.

“He’s training hard. It’s almost like he’s never been away.

“The group have so much respect for Charlie, as the coaching staff have, because he does things right.

“Let’s see what the next few months brings.”