Rovers chief executive Steve Waggott believes arriving at the January transfer window around the top 10 would represent a 'fantastic effort'.

Waggott says stability back in the second tier remains a priority for Rovers who will look to improve the squad with each transfer window.

Rovers are currently 10th after 12 games in what is a tightly-packed Championship table, with just three points separating fifth and 16th.

They enjoy a weekend off before returning to action against Leeds United on October 20 and Waggott is pleased with the start made.

“We knew it was going to be a challenge but I’ve been motivated with the way Tony has motivated the team to hit the ground running,” the chief executive said.

“We have 1.5 points a game which usually gets you up and around the play-off spots in previous seasons.

“They seem to have acclimatised to the speed and the competitiveness of the league which is a step-up.

“What you learn very quickly is the level of the players technically and physically is higher and any mistakes get punished.

“Therefore, that’s something Tony keeps looking at and trying to improve and generally the momentum we have taken from promotion out of League One last season has pushed us on this year.

“In my view if we’re anywhere in and around the top 10 come the halfway stage then that will be fantastic effort by the group.”

Mowbray pointed to the development of Sheffield United, promoted from League One in 2016/17, who currently top the table.

Chris Wilder's side finished 10th last year and are looking to build on that success, a blueprint Waggott believes Rovers could follow.

The Blades became the first time to win a league game at Ewood Park in 26 matches earlier this month.

“Every transfer window that opens we will look to get stronger,” Waggott added.

“We saw Sheffield United who came up the year before last improved their squad and improved again and we will be looking at a similar pathway.

“Each window we will be trying to improve the squad, trying to bring in higher quality players so Tony has the skill and depth level in the squad.

“Speaking to their club they were saying it’s the strongest they’ve been in two or three years but it’s been a gradual burn.

“We’ll be looking at the same.

“My view is stability, top half away from relegation. At the minute the league is crazy, you can chuck a blanket over 10 clubs and we’re one of them.

“Everyone seems to be able to beat each other, or draw with each other, as is the case over the weeks.

“Stability, mid-table, top 10 would be great, and if we can keep pushing and picking up the wins it’s a league where someone is going to come out of the pack and threaten the play-offs.

“Initially, top half of the table would be great.”