John Eustace, the manager of Blackburn Rovers, has recently addressed the swirling speculation surrounding potential signings of Grant Hanley and Ryan Kent as the January transfer window approaches. Reports earlier this week suggested that both players were under consideration by the club. However, the Lancashire Telegraph has since indicated that neither player is expected to join Rovers at this time.
Grant Hanley, 33, has found himself on the periphery at Norwich City, with his current contract set to expire this summer. Despite his previous connections to Blackburn Rovers, Eustace has clarified that Hanley does not fit the profile the club is seeking to strengthen their defensive line this January. “Grant is obviously a really experienced Championship player who has been promoted. He is a Scottish international and a good Championship player, so I can see why he has been linked with us. We are doing very well. We will have to wait and see,” Eustace remarked, acknowledging Hanley’s credentials.
In addition to the situation regarding Hanley, the Lancashire Telegraph has reported that Blackburn Rovers have initiated discussions with Coventry City about the potential acquisition of Liam Kitching. Primarily a centre-back, Kitching has also demonstrated versatility by playing as a left-back, which could offer tactical flexibility for Rovers as they navigate the season.
“There have been a lot of players we have been linked with,” Eustace commented. “I have just been told the number of players (linked) and had never heard of some of them. I think if we can bring good quality in all the areas to help this group of players, that would be fantastic.”
On the injury front, Eustace expressed optimism regarding Hayden Carter's anticipated return in three to four weeks. In the meantime, Danny Batth has stepped up admirably in Carter's absence, forming a solid partnership with Dom Hyam. However, Eustace raised concerns about the potential impact of further injuries on the central defence, underscoring the importance of squad depth. “That is why Kyle (McFadzean) is here as well. He has been working his socks off during pre-season and in the season as well,” Eustace noted. “He will be ready to go if called upon. It is a worry when anyone gets injured; you don't want any of your main players to get injured. But as we have shown up to now, if that happens we have players who will come in, stand up and be counted.”
Ryan Kent, another player linked with a move to Rovers, is not expected to be pursued, despite Eustace's acknowledgment of the club's interest in acquiring a left-winger. Kent has been without a club since leaving Fenerbahce in October, and Rovers are focusing on players who can make an immediate impact on their first team. “I have just been told that name; I haven't looked at the rumours about who is coming in and supposed to be going,” Eustace added. “I think Ryan is a good player from when he was at Rangers, a really exciting player. That is all I can say really.”
While Eustace does not foresee any new signings ahead of their upcoming trip to Teesside, he confirmed that discussions, including those regarding Kitching, are progressing. His priority remains on enhancing the squad with a striker and a left-sided player. “I think we have spoken already about that; we would like to get people in the building as quickly as we can if they are the right people to come in, make us better and improve the team,” he continued. “We have four huge league games coming up after Middlesbrough; that is a possible 12 points, so we want as competitive a squad as we can. Obviously, if we could get any players in before then, it would be brilliant.”
As Blackburn Rovers look to solidify their position in the league, the focus remains on strategic signings that can enhance their performance and depth, particularly in light of the challenges posed by injuries.