Blackburn Rovers midfielder Sondre Tronstad could come into contention against Portsmouth, while Ryan Hedges and Balazs Toth are likely to return against Millwall.
Blackburn Rovers sit a lowly 20th in the Championship table after a midweek draw against Oxford United. They have a five-point lead between them and the bottom three.
Nevertheless, a win would go a long way to easing concerns at Ewood Park. The clash with Portsmouth offers a great opportunity to get back on track, with Pompey in 22nd place and with just one win in their last ten games.
As Rovers prepare for the long trip to Fratton Park, Valerien Ismael has revealed that key midfielder Sondre Tronstad could be in contention for the tie. The information was passed on by reporter Andy Bayes after the boss’s pre-match press conference.
While Tronstad could play a role, Ryan Hedges and Balazs Toth are slightly further behind in their recovery. Ismael expects the Blackburn Rovers pair could be involved against Millwall next weekend.
The return of Sondre Tronstad would be a notable boost for Blackburn Rovers
Norwegian midfielder Tronstad has cemented himself as a key Blackburn Rovers player since signing in 2023. He formed a fine partnership alongside former captain Lewis Travis and is one of the few senior figures in the middle at Ewood Park.
His absence has certainly been felt in recent weeks. Rovers have not won a game they have missed this campaign.
Adam Forshaw’s recent injury has further expanded Ismael’s options in midfield. That blow likely increased Tronstad’s determination to get back into the fight, as well as his dedication and mentality.
With Kristi Montgomery also out, Sidnei Tavares started alongside Taylor Garnder-Hickman against Oxford United. Moussa Baradji replaced him late and showed a lot more impetus, so he could quickly come into contention if Rovers are careful with his minutes.
Blackburn Rovers cannot miss a great opportunity to get back on track against Portsmouth
Regardless of the limited options in midfield, Blackburn Rovers will see the trip to Portsmouth as a great opportunity to earn a first win in four games.
Blackburn Rovers’ last four championship games
Pompey are in a worrying slide towards the relegation zone and fears are growing among the Fratton Park faithful in their second season of Championship football. They have looked worryingly blunt in attack and have not had the defensive solidity to get results.
Rovers have found most of their success on the road this season. It should mean they are confident of going to Hampshire and returning with an important three points.
Their chances of doing so increase enormously if Tronstad is fit, but caution is advised upon his return.
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