SAM Allardyce has confirmed that Stephen Warnock could return to his squad for tomorrow's trip to Gillingham.

Big Sam left Stephen out of his plans for the game at Sunderland on Saturday, saying speculation linking the defender with a move to Aston Villa had affected his mental state.

However, the Rovers boss is now considering recalling the England international for the Carling Cup tie with the Gills after losing Ryan Nelsen to injury.

Big Sam said: "Stephen is here today. I think, over the weekend with our injury problems, he has to be included in the squad.

"There is no acceptable bid as yet from Aston Villa so he is still a Blackburn player and I need him to travel with the squad tomorrow - at the moment.

"Whether that changes or not will be another story between now and the next 24-48 hours.

"We are obviously sat in a very delicate position at the moment.

"Obviously, what happens in the next few days depends on what negotiations go on between John Williams and Aston Villa."