GARY Bowyer says Yann Songo’o has impressed during his trial spell at Blackburn Rovers – as he prepares to make a final decision on whether to offer the defender a contract.

The 21-year-old has featured in three pre-season friendly games for Rovers after linking up for training and is hoping to earn a deal with the club.

The son of former Cameroon goalkeeper Jacques Songo’o and the brother of ex-Portsmouth midfielder Franck, he is currently without a club following his release by MLS side Sporting Kansas City.

Songo’o has played in games against Wrexham, Portimonense and Fleetwood and Bowyer says the centre back has given him food for thought as he ponders whether to offer a contract.

“Yann played against Fleetwood and did well in that again,” Bowyer said.

“We’ve been impressed with him. We’ve got him for a little bit longer and we’ll just monitor that situation and see how it goes.

“He’s acquitted himself properly, he’s only 21 and we’ll see how he continues with the rest of his week.”

Rovers have already added Matt Kilgallon at centre back but Nuno Henrique has joined Arouca on a season-long loan and there remains uncertainty about the future of Gael Givet.

Kilgallon missed Rovers’ midweek friendlies with a minor groin injury, while left back Markus Olsson was withdrawn at Crewe with a tight hamstring.

Lee Williamson has missed Rovers’ early pre-season games with a back problem, while Dickson Etuhu and Paul Robinson are also still recuperating after injury.

Rovers are also keen to strengthen in midfield. They have been assessing Monaco’s Gary Coulibaly and remain interested in Jay Spearing, but are also looking at other options.

Reports in Spain claim that Elche are still interested in Ruben Rochina, but the La Liga side fear other clubs are also monitoring the 22-year-old.

Rochina featured for Rovers at Crewe on Tuesday and Bowyer was pleased with his players’ fitness levels.

“We’re cranking it up a little bit in terms of the game against Rochdale on Saturday now,” he said.

“Everything is going according to plan in terms of fitness levels. Performances need to improve, that’s for sure, but we’re working hard at that.

“We saw the data and we’re pleased with what the players scored in terms of the fitness levels.”

Rovers owners Venky’s have been contemplating whether to bring in a new senior football executive this summer, having held talks with at least one potential candidate.

Former QPR technical director Mike Rigg, who has been among those rumoured for a role, watched Rovers’ friendly with Crewe on Tuesday but was said to be scouting for Liverpool.