Ferguson boost for Rovers

Ferguson thought his season was over

Blackburn manager Graeme Souness has revealed Barry Ferguson could be back playing within five weeks.

Ferguson fractured his knee cap against Newcastle in December and was expected to be out for the rest of the season.

But the 26-year-old Scotland international has made a rapid recovery and is expected to return to Rovers' starting line-up by the end of March.

"On Monday, he'll be thrown into the second phase of his rehabilitation," said Souness.

He added: "He's taken five days off to get some sun on his back, then he'll be involved in running and maybe kicking a ball.

"I'm hoping he'll be back in a month to five weeks, but I know that Fergie is determined to get back playing as soon as possible."