Blackburn Rovers manager Tony Mowbray has detailed his involvement in the club's transfer process as the deadline approaches. Speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph this week, Mowbray stressed he is a key part of recruitment decisions, a role he values after past frustrations elsewhere.
What is Tony Mowbray's transfer role?
Tony Mowbray is clear about his position within Blackburn Rovers' recruitment structure. "Yeah, I'm always consulted. I think it's important; I've been pretty clear," he said. The manager explained that while he does not hold the final say on every deal, his input is mandatory. "I have a say here. I haven't got the final say but players won't just arrive in the building without me knowing they're coming." This balance of power is something Mowbray sought upon his return to the club, having found his limited influence at previous clubs like Sunderland and West Bromwich Albion to be a source of frustration. He maintains active working relationships on all transfers in and out of Ewood Park.
How is the squad shaping up?
Mowbray has used the pre-season period to make concrete decisions about his playing staff. He gave numerous players 45-minute run-outs in friendly matches to assess their capabilities. That evaluation period has now concluded, leading to clear choices on who stays and who goes. The manager confirmed there are currently deals on the table for some players, while others with existing contracts present issues the club is working through. He admitted there are individuals he would prefer to move on and others he is keen to retain, with external enquiries about players being fielded. His primary hope is that the squad's final numbers and balance are correct, avoiding the scenario where senior professionals are left out of the official 25-man squad. This comes after a season where Rovers finished 20th in the Championship, with 52 points from 46 games.
What are the upcoming challenges?
The immediate focus shifts to the pitch, with a unique test against Queens Park Rangers this Saturday. Mowbray described QPR as an upwardly mobile side, already with four points from their opening two fixtures. He highlighted their unconventional style, noting their goalkeeper often acts as a sweeper, positioned 15 yards outside his box. Mowbray promised fans will see a different Blackburn Rovers team than they might expect for this encounter. He then looked further ahead to a tough away trip to Lincoln City, a side he described as very direct, physical, and effective. You can view the full schedule on our fixtures page. Mowbray suggested picking up points there will be difficult, underscoring the diverse challenges of the Championship.
Why does league diversity matter?
For Tony Mowbray, the variety of opponents is what makes the Championship an amazing league. He contrasted the recent game against Sheffield United, who tried to bully Rovers' centre-backs with long balls, with the upcoming tactical puzzle posed by QPR's seven-man defensive line and proactive goalkeeper. This constant shift in styles demands flexibility. Mowbray said the progress for his team has started, citing performances at Wolves and Middlesbrough as confidence-builders. Ultimately, he wants the tools within his squad to decide whether to play a technical game or to fight physically with any given opponent. Building that adaptable squad, which conceded 56 goals last term, is the ongoing project. Supporters can track the team's progress in our standings and stats sections as the new campaign gets underway.
