ROVERS' Premiership build-up could be disrupted by Damien Duff 's likely international call-up, just three days before Blackburn kick-off at Derby County.

The Republic of Ireland have hurriedly pencilled in a friendly against Croatia at Lansdowne Road on Wednesday, August 15 with Duff certain to be included as Mick McCarthy prepares for a crucial World Cup qualifier against Holland on September 1.

It will mean an intense start to the season for the winger as Rovers mark their Premiership return with the trip to Pride Park Saturday, August 18 quickly followed by the visit of Premiership champions Manchester United on Wednesday, August 22.

Duff's Rovers colleagues Alan Kelly and Jason McAteer could also be called up, though whether the pair will still be at Ewood remains to be seen.