CRAIG Conway says the new signings will be welcomed with open arms as the squad aim to fire Rovers to promotion.

Rovers made three late additions on transfer deadline day taking the total number of incomings at Ewood Park this summer to 13.

Boss Tony Mowbray can’t alter his squad until January, and Conway is looking forward to Rovers continuing their improved form after the international break.

“Like anyone that comes in they will be welcomed with open arms and they will be working hard to add to the cause and help us be up there at the end of the season,” Conway said.

“I always felt that the results would come and they are. But there’s a long way to go and we have to keep picking up results.

“I think we have shown now what we are capable of and it’s now a matter of keeping that going.”

Mowbray brought in Rekeem Harper and Paul Downing on season long loan deals from West Brom and MK Dons respectively, while Sam Hart arrived on a permanent deal from Liverpool.

Liam Feeney was allowed to join Championship leaders Cardiff City on loan until January, as Rovers finished their business just minutes before the deadline closed.

Mowbray had been keen to add competition in defence and midfield and the three signings made meant he achieved that aim.

All three signed, and Feeney departed, in the final two hours of transfer deadline day, and Mowbray admitted it was a long day for all concerned.

“We had a spell of two or three hours where it was extremely hectic, dealing with lots of agents at the same time, trying to get the deals done and we’ve signed a few players and let one move on,” the Rovers boss told the club’s official website.

“I thought when we got to this stage that we had some good, experienced footballers who are important players for our squad and when I work with them every day I think they will come up trumps for us this year.

“But I felt as though we needed to add some fresh, youthful, energetic footballers.

“We have to be conscious of keeping players as fit as we can in a tight squad.

“We’re not overloaded with lots and lots of players.

“If we can keep them all fit then I think we can keep them together, working hard for each other, enjoying each other’s’ company, and driving each other on.

“I think we have a balance between experienced players and some young athletic players and hopefully that chemistry is enough that we can achieve our aims this year.

“It’s business, it’s amazing just how hectic that last day is and why so many things happen so late.

“I look forward to next year when hopefully the window shuts before the season kicks off if that happens.”