Charlie Mulgrew has returned to Rovers at his own request, cutting short his loan spell at Wigan Athletic.

Rovers loaned out their captain in August, with Mulgrew agreeing a season-long deal. However, the 33-year-old has taken the decision to cut short his time at the DW Stadium and will now return to Ewood Park.

Mulgrew, having played for Rovers on the opening day and 12 times for Wigan, will be unable to play for any other club this season.

Tony Mowbray had suggested the more likely scenario was for Wigan to firm up their interest in securing Mulgrew on a permanent deal this month, with Rovers unlikely to have stood in their way.

Mulgrew has 18 months left to run on his Ewood Park contract and is among the club’s highest earners.

Rovers allowed Mulgrew to leave with the Scotland international having fallen behind Derrick Williams and Manchester City loanee Tosin Adarabioyo in the pecking order to partner Darragh Lenihan in the heart of the Rovers defence.

Mulgrew hasn’t played for Wigan since December 7 because of injury, but is understood to be back fit again.