Tony Mowbray knows tough tests lie in wait but he is hoping a competitive squad can aid Rovers’ cause after the international break.

Rovers host Aston Villa on Saturday in the first of seven games in 21 days, including the Carabao Cup tie at Premier League side Bournemouth.

They went in to the two-week break on the back of a 4-1 defeat at Bristol City which ended their unbeaten start to the season.

A positive for Rovers is that Bradley Dack is itching to return to action after a frustrating four-match absence with a knee problem. The 24-year-old should be back in the fold for the visit of Villa.

“We have some tough tests coming up, with Aston Villa at home and then some tough away matches,” Mowbray said.

“We can make it difficult for teams by working hard but each challenge is different.

“We’ve added quite a few young players with growth and potential and hopefully become better players over the piece.

“We have some loan players within that we feel can help us.

“All we’re trying to do is create competition and make sure we can replace quality with quality.

“Hopefully all the team will buy into the fact that if they have to sit on the bench some days it’s for the benefit of the group and everyone stays.”

After the visit of Villa on Saturday, Rovers face trips to Derby County, Stoke City and the cup tie at Bournemouth before returning to Ewood Park for the visits of Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United.

Their final game before the next international break is at Bolton Wanderers on October 6.

Mowbray is likely to have his strongest squad of the season available for the visit of Villa.

Defender Derrick Williams returned to the squad against Bristol City and will be considered for a first start since the opening day after overcoming a foot problem.

Southampton loanee Harrison Reed is also in contention for a start while skipper Charlie Mulgrew came through the international break unscathed, starting both of Scotland’s fixtures against Belgium and Albania.

The 32-year-old will return to East Lancashire today, as will Ben Brereton after England Under-20 duty.

Midfielder Jacob Davenport could come into contention for the first time this season after overcoming a hip problem meaning Rovers will be without just Jack Rodwell, who continues to build up fitness after signing last month, Dominic Samuel and Ben Gladwin (both knee).