Scott Dann "very close" to Blackburn Rovers return

Blackburn Rovers defender Scott Dann is in contention to make an early comeback from injury.

The former Birmingham City centre-back was expected to be sidelined for six weeks after suffering a groin injury in mid-December.

"Scott has made great progress," Rovers boss Steve Kean told the club's official website. "It was originally thought that he would be sidelined for at least six weeks, but he is back training inside a month and very close to returning to match action, which is obviously great news."

The 24-year-old could return to the fold for the struggling club against Everton in just under a fortnight.