Blackburn Rovers forward Yuki Ohashi has suffered a hamstring injury that will keep him out for several weeks. The former Japan international was forced off after just 11 minutes of Tuesday's 2-1 Carabao Cup loss to Sheffield United, as reported by the BBC.
This is a significant setback for a player who has been a reliable presence. Manager Tony Mowbray described the news as a real blow. "It was a real blow to us all, it's a lad that never gets injured," Mowbray said. The injury comes as Rovers sit sixth in the Championship with four points from their opening two games, scoring four goals and conceding three.
Who else is affected by injury?
The cup match also saw left-back Harry Pickering substituted at half-time. His issue is described as very minor, and he could be available for Saturday's Championship fixture against Queens Park Rangers. That game kicks off at 15:00 BST. Midfielder Adam Forshaw, who missed the cup tie, is set to return to the squad. Jake Garrett is also likely to be fit for selection.
Defender Scott Wharton is back in training but will not be rushed. He played only 12 games last season due to persistent injury problems. Mowbray outlined a cautious plan for his reintegration. "He needs a couple of weeks, probably needs an under-21's game to give him the confidence that his body is ready and okay to compete," the manager explained. This leaves the squad depth at the back tested early in the campaign.
How does this impact squad selection?
Ohashi's absence creates an immediate gap in the attacking options. His unavailability forces a reshuffle in forward areas ahead of a busy period. The potential return of Forshaw and Garrett offers more stability in midfield. At left-back, if Pickering is not fully ready, Yuri Ribeiro could feature. Ribeiro has had just 11 minutes of action this season, coming in the opening day match against Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Rovers are currently two points behind early leaders Millwall. Their next test is an away trip to face Lincoln City, who are 22nd in the table, on September 1st. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming matches on our fixtures page and check the latest standings.
What happens next for Blackburn Rovers?
The immediate focus shifts to managing the squad through this spell without Ohashi. The team must now prepare for the QPR clash and the subsequent trip to Lincoln without a key attacker. Balancing recovery for players like Wharton with the need for points is a challenge for the coaching staff. The club's current goal difference of +1 reflects a solid, if unspectacular, start to the season.
This period will test the depth of the squad Mowbray has assembled. How they cope could shape their early season form as they look to stay in touch with the promotion-chasing pack. For the latest updates on all player availability, supporters can visit our dedicated injuries section.
