JUNIOR Hoilett has handed Blackburn Rovers a major fitness boost as boss Steve Kean sweats on a potential availability crisis at Ewood Park.

The Canadian starlet limped out of Rovers’ 1-1 draw with Birmingham with a tight hamstring after firing his side back on level terms on Saturday, sparking concern he would not be ready for the weekend’s crucial trip to Everton.

After giving the injury a couple of days to settle down, Rovers yesterday decided a scan was not necessary and he is now expected to be fit in time for the trip to Merseyside.

The 20-year-old has been the club’s most potent attacking threat in recent months and is regarded by Rovers fans as the player most likely to guide Kean’s men away from relegation danger.

Hoilett’s fitness will not be gambled on though with Rovers fully aware of the importance of having him available for the rest of the season, and medical staff will be monitoring him carefully throughout the week.

Roque Santa Cruz (hamstring), Ryan Nelsen (knee) and Chris Samba (twisted ankle) have also been left nursing injuries this week and, with Steven Nzonzi still suspended and Gael Givet in a contract dispute with the club, Kean’s selection options are in danger of being severely restricted.

Santa Cruz and skipper Samba are likely to be given the green light for Everton, although club captain Ryan Nelsen is understood to be a bigger doubt.