Jack Rodwell was one of three players in discussions over the possibility of remaining at Rovers when the club published its retained list in May.

Almost three months have passed and very little has been heard about the 28-year-old.

While Tony Mowbray has never closed the door on the possibility of him returning for a second season at Ewood Park, having not taken part in pre-season, that seems very unlikely.

The former England international has taken time out this close season, with links even rumours and speculation as to the possible destination of his next move have been few and far between.

Italian interest from Sassuolo and Torino has been mooted for some time, with the latest links emanating from Greece suggesting Panathinaikos, managed by former Rover Georgios Donis, were keen on signing him.

However, those links have seemingly dismissed leaving Rodwell in an intriguing position.

While the transfer window for Championship closes on Thursday, as a free agent Rodwell could still sign for any of the 24 teams once that closes.

Indeed, free agents can often become more attractive once the opportunity to sign permanent transfers and loan signings ends, which Rodwell could view as his chance to secure a deal.

But his lack of pre-season would likely hinder the opportunities which may come his way.

Rodwell was seen as something of a low risk move for Rovers last summer when brought in on a 12-month deal after a turbulent time with Sunderland.

It felt at the time like it would turn out to be a masterstroke, or a huge failure, where in truth, it was neither.

There were signs of his class, not least in a run of three consecutive games in January at centre half where Rovers chalked up a hat-trick of wins, keeping clean sheets in them all, as well as netting in the victory over Hull City.

At the time it felt like a longer-term deal was his for the taking.

But the appearances dried up there after, with shaky performances at centre half in defeats at Brentford and Rotherham.

In central midfield he looked impressive in an Easter Monday win at Bolton, but a performance in the penultimate game of the season at Norwich didn’t seem to be that of someone busting a gut to earn a new deal.

His talent is undoubted and time at Rovers should have helped restore some of the reputation dented by those four years on Wearside.

But whether he has done enough in the off season to put himself in a position to be ready to earn a contract remains to be seen.

Still 28, and time on his side, Rodwell isn’t quite in last chance saloon, but his next move feels an important one.