Jan Paul van Hecke has been backed by manager Tony Mowbray to make a big impact as he prepares to replace the injured Daniel Ayala at Stoke City.

Rovers are expected to stick with their three-man defence at the bet365 Stadium with van Hecke’s return from a three-match suspension particularly timely with Ayala struggling with an ankle issue.

While scans have shown no lasting damage, Rovers aren’t expected to risk the 31-year-old against Stoke with the game coming only three days after the Peterborough United win.

Ayala is only just back from a calf issue which allowed Brighton loanee van Hecke a run in the side, his five consecutive appearances ended by a rash decision that earned him a red card in the 7-0 defeat to Fulham.

Mowbray says he doesn’t want the 21-year-old to lose his competitive edge and feels he has a big role to play during his season-long stay.

He told the Lancashire Telegraph: “He’s an interesting personality, he’s a thoughtful, intelligent boy.

“It’s hurt him that he’s missed three games because he came here to play and show everyone his qualities.

“I like van Hecke because he does have the same composure qualities as a Scotty Wharton and the warrior traits of a Lenihan, he wants to win every tackle and every header.

“I’m not sure I want to put that fire out in his belly, obviously it doesn’t help when he gets sent off.

“If he’s given the opportunity I will give him the opportunity to keep playing without too many dampeners on his enthusiasm.

“Ultimately he’s a player I really like and could really help because of the warrior-like qualities but also the ability to pick the right pass at the right time.

“It’s never bad when you’re a defender and you have some fire in your belly that you want to win every challenge.”

Hayden Carter is another option available to Mowbray having overcome a bout of illness that saw him miss the game against Peterborough.

Bradley Johnson stepped into the three-man defence against Posh when replacing Ayala and is another option should Mowbray not want to thrust van Hecke straight back into the fold.

Ayala did train yesterday as scans revealed no lasting damage to his ankle but Rovers are set to take a cautious approach with his fitness.