Kean holds Hoilett hope

Hoilett: Expected to be fit for the game against Manchester City following injury

Steve Kean is confident Junior Hoilett will be fit to face Manchester City on Monday in a key game for Blackburn.

Hoilett, 20, has been a talisman for Kean since he took over as manager, scoring five goals since the turn of the year.

He missed the defeat to Everton due to a hamstring injury but has been making good progress over the past few days and is likely to be available for the televised clash at Ewood Park.

Kean said: "We have missed him. His quality this season has been fantastic, and his consistency.

"He's not been a flash in the pan - he's been a constant threat to opposition defences.

"We are confident he will be back for Monday. He missed the last game with a bit of fluid on his hamstring but that is clearing up and we are hopeful he will be able to train on Saturday and Sunday."

Dogfight

The Rovers manager admits Blackburn, two points off the relegation zone, have to give everything for the final five matches.

He said: "We know where we are, we are in an absolute dogfight, and sometimes you have to fight.

"We need to roll our sleeves up and battle for our lives.

"We have spoken to the players about all that and I'm very confident they have taken all that on board."

Roque Santa Cruz is unavailable as he is on loan from City and Steven N'Zonzi is suspended, while Ryan Nelsen and Vince Grella remain injured.