PHIL Jones could be back in first team action within a month as he continues to make good progress in his recovery.

Rovers' teen sensation was expected to be facing a battle to play again this season after undergoing a cartilage operation just before Christmas.

The under 21 star is recovering quicker than first expected and boss Steve Kean admits it has handed him a big boost.

He said: "Phil is back out on the pitch working with Dave Fevre so he's making good progress.

"He's coming on quicker than we thought, so hopefully in three or four weeks he'll be available for selection.

"That is another great boost, as he was unfortunate to pick up the injury that he had, but he's a young man and he's healing quick and that is something we are really looking forward to, getting him back in the fold."