Nelsen set for swift return

Hughes concern over international action

By Rob Parrish   Last updated: 24th September 2007

Ryan Nelsen

Nelsen: Swift recovery

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Blackburn skipper Ryan Nelsen's powers of recovery have given manager Mark Hughes an unexpected headache.

The central defender was expected to face a month on the sidelines after damaging scar tissue from his previous hamstring operation in the Uefa Cup first round first leg defeat by Larissa.

And although the New Zealand international missed the 1-0 defeat by Portsmouth he was out jogging along the touchline prior to the game and could even return for the return European leg against the Greeks on 4th October.

Rovers' following fixture sees them take on Birmingham before a break in the domestic action as the international calendar takes over.

And a fit Nelsen would then be called up for New Zealand's World Cup qualifying double-header with Vanuatu on 13th and 17th October, leading to two long-haul flights, something Hughes is not keen on.

Dialogue

The Rovers boss said: "There are international games coming, and there's nothing you can do.

"But if he's injured then he doesn't make the games. We'll have to have dialogue with them (New Zealand Football) and we'll see what the situation is.

"But travelling halfway around the world might not be the best thing given he has had an episode with his hamstring.

"At least it's not a hamstring strain or pull. It's just scar tissue that has released itself.

"It's initially very sore, but once the pain subsides he should be okay, and hopefully he will be back sooner rather than later.

"Next weekend may be a bit soon for him, but I certainly hope the week after."