Blackburn Rovers kick off pre‑season on Saturday with a 90‑minute friendly at Accrington Stanley, giving Tony Mowbray his first look at the squad since returning. Over 2,000 fans will fill the Wham Stadium, eager to spot which youngsters earn minutes and whether any surprise selections emerge.

Who will feature for the Rovers?

The squad list reads like a familiar roll‑call – no new signings have arrived yet – but several academy products are poised for a chance. Osman Kamara, the 19‑year‑old left‑winger signed from Arsenal’s U‑21s until 2028, has already been on the bench once and could see action. Jake Garrett, returning from groin surgery, is desperate to prove his worth before his contract expires next summer. Aodhan Doherty, who debuted last term, remains in the senior picture, while James Edmondson joins after a productive loan at Macclesfield Town.

Which injuries still loom?

Lewis Miller is the only clear absentee, still rehabbing a ruptured Achilles and unlikely to return before the New Year. Andri Gudjohnsen (ankle), Matty Litherland (hamstring), Axel Henriksson (knee) and August Kargbo (thigh) all finished the season injured but have been spotted training this week. Hayden Carter, Scott Wharton and Connor O'Riordan have shaken off late‑season niggles and are back in full training.

What about the academy prospects?

Igor Tyjon continues to train with the first team despite rejecting a professional contract; his scholarship was extended into a third year, leaving his future uncertain while Arsenal monitor his progress. Valentin Joseph enjoys the same extension. Both remain on the club’s books but without a pro deal, meaning Rovers could lose them for little compensation.

How will the match be structured?

The friendly will revert to a traditional 90‑minute format rather than the two 60‑minute halves used previously. Mowbray is expected to split the travelling party into two XIs, ensuring everyone gets a meaningful spell on the pitch. Meanwhile, the U‑21 side heads to Marine on Saturday, meaning some fringe players may feature there to build fitness before rejoining the senior squad.

What does the current league picture mean for pre‑season?

Blackburn Rovers sit 20th in the Championship with 52 points from 46 games, a record of 13‑13‑20 and recent form LWDLD. They have scored 42 and conceded 56, sitting 43 points behind leaders Coventry. These numbers underline the urgency of finding form early, and the Accrington test offers a low‑pressure environment to experiment with line‑ups and restore confidence ahead of a tough campaign.