Tony Mowbray admits he is focussing more on recruitment than Rovers’ pre-season results.

But the Ewood chief is looking for a step-up in intensity when Liverpool arrive in East Lancashire on Thursday.

Jurgen Klopp will bring a team packed with internationals to Ewood Park, even with the absences of Mo Salah, Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Xherdan Shaqiri.

Rovers have a 2-0 win at Hibernian and 1-1 draw at Port Vale to their names so far, but return to their headquarters for one of their two standout friendlies.

They will play Liverpool a week before entertaining Merseyside rivals Everton, with Rovers’ other pre-season outings including games at Lincoln (July 22) and Accrington Stanley (July 28).

On what he is hoping to see from his side, Mowbray told the club website: “Fitness is getting there and we’re trying to bring the distances down now and add a little bit more intensity. We have a few niggles but nothing serious so we’re doing okay.

“I’d have to say pre-season games - whilst I want the team to play well and get fit - nobody remembers the pre-season scores when we’re a couple of months into the season.

“I’m more wrapped up in trying to get some more personnel through the doors, working with the Head of Recruitment, Stuart (Harvey) and Veno (Mark Venus).

“We have the players we have identified and want and are in negotiations with, but I’m also conscious that supporters want players through the door. It’s difficult.

“Things are dragging on a little bit and we’ll have to be patient.

“Hopefully things will work out well for us and by the time the window shuts we look at the squad and feel we are in good shape. Things are okay so let’s keep things going.”