ROVERS are still working hard to add to their squad before the transfer window closes in 10 days – with a new defender still on the wishlist.

Manager Tony Mowbray has made nine signings to date, and will look to make a couple more before the window shuts at 11pm on August 31.

A defender is among the options being explored by Mowbray, with Paul Caddis the only new defensive player to arrive at Ewood Park this summer.

Darragh Lenihan is still out injured, after picking up a knock in the opening day defeat at Southend United, but Scott Wharton is nearing full fitness after a month out.

And of his defensive search, Mowbray said: “We need to recruit in that area – we are working hard behind the scenes to try and find the right one.

“There are lots of options, but when you commit and he becomes your footballer you have to get it right.”

Rovers kept their first clean sheet of the new campaign to record a crucial win at Bradford City on Saturday which got their League One campaign up and running.

Caddis, Elliott Ward, captain Charlie Mulgrew and Derrick Williams were named as the Rovers back four, with Ryan Nyambe missing out with a sore knee.

Mowbray was keen to praise their resilience, as Rovers held on for the win.

He added:  “I thought Ward did well after a disappointing performance against Doncaster.  He rebounded well and showed his strength of character. 

“Mulgrew did what he’s good at, Caddis sat in there and Williams had his best game of the season.  Credit to them.”

Mowbray is also keen on adding another midfielder to his squad, having previously pursued West Bromwich Albion prospect Rakeem Harper.  However, reports linking Rovers with a move for Sheffield United striker James Hanson are understood to be wide of the mark.