Blackburn midfielder David Dunn remains on course for his earlier than expected return, as he steps up his rehabilitation from an Achilles operation.

Rovers’ vice-skipper has been sidelined ever since injuring his Achilles at home to Hull in just the second game of the season.

Having scored in the opening day win at Everton, Dunn was ruled out for up to four months following surgery in August but it is now hoped an earlier return could be on the cards.

Rovers boss Paul Ince said: “Dunny will be back January, hopefully December at a push. Fingers crossed, we are getting there.

“Dunny is a different class player and when he played earlier in the season he was fantastic.

“Not to have him for half the campaign can be destroying but he is different to what we have got in midfield. He has the ability to beat people. He has been missed.”