ROQUE Santa Cruz could make a shock return from injury in time for Sunday’s visit of Chelsea to hand Paul Ince’s depleted Rovers a timely boost.

The Paraguayan was not expected to feature before the Premier League clash with Sunderland a week on Saturday but is now set to answer Rovers’ current injury crisis.

Santa Cruz suffered a calf injury before Wednesday night’s defeat at Aston Villa and was ruled out of action for at least a fortnight soon after.

A cautious Rovers are now hopeful their talisman can complete a rapid recovery in time for the visit of Frank Lampard & co, just 11 days on, as the injury woes surrounding Ewood show signs of finally lifting.

Rovers are not prepared to risk the striker’s long-term fitness by rushing him back prematurely.

But the Lancashire Telegraph understands hopes are growing he will have fully recovered to take the attack to the Premier League title chasers.

Santa Cruz’s presence would be well-timed, with fellow striker Benni McCarthy serving a one-match ban for his sending off at West Bromwich Albion last weekend.