ROVERS defender Craig Short looks set to miss Friday night's clash with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

The towering cente back was forced out of Sunday's derby date with Burnley due to a hamstring injury.

Short is not expected to recover in time for Rovers' trip to the Capital.

But the former Everton man should be back in contention for the big Boxing Day clash with Birmingham at Ewood Park.

"Shorty will be missing on Friday but he should be back for the Birmingham game," said Souness.