ROVERS defender Scott Wharton could be set for a loan move away from Ewood Park to further his development.

The 20-year-old has featured just twice for the first-team this season, the last of which came in the FA Cup draw with Crewe in December.

League Two clubs, where Wharton enjoyed a spell with Cambridge United last term, are understood to have enquired about his availability, and the addition of Amari'i Bell, plus nearing return of Darragh Lenihan, could free up a move.

“We’ve talked to him about that,” boss Tony Mowbray said.

“There has to be interest and there has in Scotty Wharton I would have to say.

“As I’ve talked to the boy our priorities have mainly been to ensure our club remains strong at this moment and not to empty the ranks in certain positions.

“We have to make sure the squad is right for every given Saturday but I think with Lenihan on the cusp of being ready again, the addition of Amari’i Bell and the flexibility of (Derrick) Williams I think can open that door for a left-sided central defender.

“That’s something we’re looking at, there have been some enquiries so we will chase that up and see if it is still on the agenda and particularly for the younger players, like Wharton, potentially him going to play 15 games between now and the end of the season will be more beneficial than sitting on the bench or in the stands watching the game.”