BLACKBURN boss Mark Hughes will give Portuguese defender Abel Xavier until the middle of next week to prove his worth.

The former Liverpool and Everton full-back is training with Rovers in the hope of getting a permanent contract.

The 32-year-old has been without a club since leaving German side Hanover in the summer.

But Hughes is aware of Xavier's capabilities from their days together at Everton and the Rovers boss may be tempted to offer him a deal if he proves he still has what it takes to cut it in the Premiership.

"I know Abel from my days at Everton and he was a very good player at that time," said Hughes.

"He has lost his way a bit but we are having a look at him and I would rather look at players first hand in training than rely on the word of agents and videos.

"He's done okay but he has only had one training session so he will be here for a couple more days next week before we make a final decision."

Hughes is eager to add at least one new defender to his squad during the transfer window.

New Zealand international centre back Ryan Nelsen has also been training with Rovers this week and Hughes is keen to open talks with the 27-year-old's advisers about signing on a free.

In the meantime, Lorenzo Amoruso could be back in action in time for Christmas.

The former Rangers defender has been sidelined with an Achilles injury since the m iddle of October but he was back in training with the reserves yesterday and Hughes expects him to be in contention for a first team return shortly.

"Amo returned to training yesterday with the reserves and it's a chance to give him more contact work," said Hughes.

"By Monday or Tuesday, I expect he should be back with the first team."

Hughes is also hoping to welcome back Youri Djorkaeff for the festive programme.

The 36-year-old has missed the last three games with a torn hamstring but he's making good progress in his bid to return.

"Youri has been unfortunate because of his injury and we haven't been able to get him out on the pitch as much as we would have liked but he's nearing full fitness now and, hopefully, he'll be involved over Christmas."