THE players don't return for pre-season training until Monday July 7th, but new boss Paul Ince is already looking forward to renewing old acquaintances.

For Ince is a former team-mate of Rovers number one Brad Friedel during their time together at Liverpool.

"I played with Brad at Liverpool, he's an exceptional goalkeeper and has done ever so well at Blackburn.

"I'm looking forward to seeing him, we had some great times together at Liverpool and he is someone I can speak to, to tell me about the club, things I need to know.

"So when he gets back from holiday we'll have a good chat."