Cumbrian star Jarrad Branthwaite is hoping to return to contention for Blackburn after missing recent games with illness.

The teenage defender had to sit out games against Millwall and Swansea.

The 18-year-old has returned to training with Blackburn next in action at Brentford tomorrow night.

Rovers confirmed Branthwaite's illness was not Covid-related.

Boss Tony Mowbray, speaking before Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Swansea, said of the Everton loanee: “Jarrad is hopefully going to be back on the grass today, but he’s been ill and I wouldn’t anticipate him being involved.

“I think he’ll be a bit washed out following his illness."

Former Carlisle United star Branthwaite, from Wigton, has made nine appearances for the Lancashire outfit since joining on a half-season loan.

He was on the bench for their defeat at Reading earlier this month before being ruled out of the squad for their most recent two games.