Steve Kean has reiterated that Blackburn will respect Bolton's wishes if their local rivals request a postponement of Saturday's derby.
Blackburn boss pleased that Muamba is making progress
Steve Kean has reiterated that Blackburn Rovers will respect Bolton Wanderers' wishes if their local rivals request a postponement of Saturday's derby.
Bolton are expected to make an announcement on Wednesday regarding Saturday's fixture at the Reebok Stadium as midfielder Fabrice Muamba continues to recover in hospital.
Muamba suffered a cardiac arrest during last Saturday's FA Cup tie against Tottenham Hotspur and the Trotters' game against Aston Villa on Tuesday was called off.
The 23-year-old has been making positive progress in the last couple of days and Bolton boss Owen Coyle is due to speak to the rest of his players to assess their frame of mind.
Kean, whose side beat Sunderland 2-0 on Tuesday, is waiting for Bolton's decision and expressed his delight that Muamba is making progress.
Sensitive
"I think we will get a decision (on Wednesday)," said Kean after the victory over Sunderland.
"I had a message on my phone from Owen Coyle, having left a message from him, saying we will be the first to know.
"He is going to speak with his players and see what frame of mind they are in.
"It has been difficult for them in a broken week with emotions running high.
"The main thing is, football aside, Fabrice is making progress.
"If the game goes ahead that is great but if they feel as if some of the lads can't play and they get permission from the league not to play it we will respect that and give them more preparation time.
"We want to play but we have to be very sensitive and respective of Bolton's wishes.
"We know Saturday is going to be a difficult occasion and it will be very emotional, if it goes ahead, for the Bolton players but we are delighted Fabrice is making progress.
"We are in a good vein of form, playing well and scoring goals, but if we don't play we will put that aside and prepare for Manchester United (on April 2)."
