BLACKBURN boss Graeme Souness today faced up to the prospect of going into Europe without both Andy Cole and David Thompson.

Cole was due to have a scan on his hamstring this morning in order to assess the extent of the damage after he limped off injured against Manchester City on Sunday.

And Thompson also remains touch and go after he picked up a knee injury as a result of Danny Tiatto's X-rated challenge.

As things stand, Thompson would appear to have the best chance of recovering in time for Thursday night's UEFA Cup first round first leg tie with CSKA Sofia.

But Souness has already stressed that the competition comes a poor second to the Premiership.

And he insisted today that he will not take any unnecessary risks with anyone, especially as Rovers have a vital league game against Leeds United looming large on the horizon.

"It's looking like they won't be involved because I can't afford to risk anyone if there's any doubt about their fitness," said Souness.

"Andy will have a scan today because it takes 48 hours for these things to settle down so we should know more about him after that.

"And Tommo has got a pain in his knee, probably as a result of the Tiatto tackle.

"So we'll have to see how he is before I make a firm decision."

With Damien Duff already sidelined by a thigh injury, Souness will be keeping his fingers firmly crossed that the news on Cole isn't too serious.

The scan this morning should determine whether or not he has torn his hamstring or simply aggravated it.

If a tear does show up then there are three grades of severity.

The most serious of those three grades would mean he could be missing for anything up to four to six weeks.

But if it is the least severe, then he could be back playing within 10 days which would make him available for the second leg in Sofia.

Rovers reserves are in action against Middlesbrough tonight at Morecambe's Christie Park (kick off 7pm).

Alan Murray's men are currently near the foot of the table after losing their opening two games against Leeds United and Newcastle.