MIDFIELDER Billy McKinlay could be fit for the war of the roses Premiership clash with Leeds United this Wednesday.

The Scotland international has missed the start of the Premiership campaign with a troublesome knee injury and was forced out of the first game against Tottenham through suspension.

But now Ray Harford's £1.75 m signing from Dundee United is expected to step up his recovery with a run-out in tonight's Pontins League fixture against Liverpool at Ewood Park tonight.

If Mckinlay successfully negotiates the second string fixture that could force him into the picture in midweek, with a possible place on the substitute's bench at stake. I was ordered to take a rest for a week to give the knee time to recover," said McKinlay. I've started jogging at the weekend and I hope to feature against Liverpool.

"It was disappointing to miss the start of the season but hopefully I can get back in contention for the Leeds and Derby games." McGinlay was forced to watch from the sidelines as Rovers picked up their first Premiership points of the season against champions Manchester United at Old Trafford a week ago.

He added: "It was a reminder to the rest of the Premiership. People may think that we've lost it - but they will have to write us off at their peril."

Meanwhile, Blackburn were linked with Swedish striker Martin Dahlin over the weekend.

Reports say manager Ray Harford is in a race with Dahlin's former club Borussia Monchengladbach in a bid to prise the 28-yesr-old striker away from Italian giants Roma. Dahlin netted in Sweden's 2-1 World Cup win over Latvia yesterday. Dahlin joined Roma in the summer for £2.5 million.

Rovers A team lost 2-1 at Oldham with Junior Obeng on the mark. The B team defeated Carlisle 2-0. Greg Woodfield and Martin Taylor scored.

Rovers Pontins League fixture at Ewood Park tonight has a 7.00 pm kick-off. Entry is via tunstiles L and J, (Jack Walker Lower Tier). Premium/League season ticket holders have free entry. Adults, children and senior citizens £3.00 - no conc.

Car Parks B, C and D at the Darwen End and Car Park H at the Blackburn End will be open at 50p per vehicle. Car Park permit holders will need to show their permit for free entry to car park.

Liverpool have denied newspaper reports linking Kenny Dalglish with a return to Anfield as a director of football.

Reds Chief Executive Peter Robinson: "There is no foundation in the story. It probably arose as he watched his son in a reserve game."

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