Harry Pickering will miss Rovers’ game with Preston North End through injury – but Sam Gallagher is in contention to feature on Saturday lunchtime.

Left back Pickering came off in the first half of the win over Ajax in Marbella through illness, but has since picked up an injury that will keep him out against North End.

Gallagher didn’t feature in either friendly in Marbella due to gash sustained to his leg that forced him off against Burnley, however, he has resumed training within the last week.

Daniel Ayala came off at half time against Hearts, but is fit and available for selection this weekend, while Jake Garrett, who picked up an ankle injury in Marbella, is also available.

Jack Vale however will miss out against Preston due to a calf problem.

“We have a couple of issues,” Jon Dahl Tomasson said.

“Jack and Harry won’t be ready, Daniel Ayala went out of the first game at half time but with nothing serious so he will be back with the group.

“Sam Gallagher will be involved in the group and will be ready to help the team.

“Sam Barnes and Jake Batty are long-term.

“Harry will be ready next week. He was ill (against Ajax) and was one of a couple of players not feeling well but that’s over with now.”

Rovers have an excellent record with Gallagher in the squad and his involvement would be a big boost to Tomasson.

“He will be selected in the group so let’s see if he’s ready to start.

“Every player had a different programme during the break and he was not able to do anything.

“We had a group of players who hadn’t played a lot so did more, and a group of players who had played a lot so didn’t really do much and needed a rest.”

Rovers’ return to action comes after a month-long break for the World Cup.

It has been an unusual period, with Rovers using the time off to travel to Marbella for a week-long training camp that included friendlies against Hearts and Ajax.

“When you have been away it can take some time,” Tomasson added.

“The schedule was really hectic before, more hectic than it has been, and there were some players that were fatigued so it’s been good to get some rest for the legs and the head.

“It’s a change and something new for the players.”