BRETT Emerton is expected to be out of action for at least the next fortnight as Paul Ince’s walking wounded list continues to grow.

The Australian midfielder suffered a hamstring strain late in Saturday’s 2-2 draw at the Hawthorns and will have a scan early this week to assess the damage.

Rovers boss Ince believes his absence could be between two to four weeks though to join the likes of Roque Santa Cruz, Andre Ooijer, David Dunn and Steven Reid on the sidelines.

Benni McCarthy will also miss Sunday’s visit of Chelsea after the weekend’s harsh dismissal leave him having to serve a one-match suspension.

A frustrated Ince said: “I have lost Benni and I have lost Brett with a hamstring.

"I am not sure the situation with Roque but things are conspiring against us but we stay strong as a unit.

“It could be two or four weeks, it depends what grade it is.

“Of course, Brett will be a big miss.”