Jon Dahl Tomasson has issued a positive fitness update ahead of tomorrow’s game with Sheffield United.

Joe Rankin-Costello limped off in the second half of the FA Cup win at Leicester City, having done likewise against West Bromwich Albion last month.

The 23-year-old has become an integral part of the Rovers side since returning to the fold in December, and he, along with Sam Gallagher, will be available to feature against Sheffield United.

Head coach Tomasson said: “We need to look very carefully at Joe and Sam in that way but they’re available to be picked.

“This month is quite busy which is great with all those games, so it’s about planning well and trying to keep everyone up to speed.

“A good example was the four front players who played against Huddersfield (for the Under-21s) last month played for a quarter final against a Premier League side.”

Harry Pickering was back in the side at left back as Callum Brittain, himself just back from injury, was given a rest having started the previous two games.

It will leave Tomasson with a decision to make in the full-back positions, with a choice of two from three.

Central defender Scott Wharton has been out since being replaced at half time against West Brom on February 15 with a calf problem.

The 25-year-old, who has made 25 appearances this season, is still a little away from fitness.

Tomasson said: “He was out on the pitch doing a little bit, but it will still take a couple more weeks probably.”

Top scorer Ben Brereton hasn’t featured in the last three matches. A hamstring concern forced him off against Swansea City on February 18 which saw him miss the Blackpool game three days later.

He returned to the squad at QPR, but was an unused substitute, and then had to sit out the Leicester FA Cup tie due to suspension.

But he will be back available for selection agains the Blades.

“It’s great that there is competition, I’m excited about it," Tomasson added.

“Sometimes as a coach you can’t make everyone happy.

“As a human being you would love to make everyone happy, but it’s part of the game, it’s about Rovers, the team and making those decisions which is part of football.”

Thomas Kaminski has stepped up his comeback from knee surgery, but his absence is set to continue until the March international break.

Daniel Ayala and Bradley Dack (both hamstring) are also ruled out, while Adam Wharton is still working his way up to match speed.

On-loan winger Sorba Thomas will be available for selection again, having been unavailable against Leicester due to being cup tied.