Blackburn Rovers manager John Eustace has revealed that Callum Brittain ‘wasn’t quite ready’ to feature in their fiery Lancashire derby against Preston North End, despite being declared fit ahead of the match.
The intense rivalry ended in a goalless draw, but the game was far from uneventful. Rovers midfielder Sam Greenwood was sent off in the first half, and Owen Beck was dismissed late on after a heated confrontation, which saw Preston’s Milutin Osmajic bite the Blackburn loanee. Despite the drama, Brittain remained absent from the starting lineup, with Eustace explaining the decision to leave him out.
Blackburn lined up with Hayden Carter filling in at right-back, alongside Dom Hyam and Danny Batth in central defence. Eustace confirmed to the Lancashire Telegraph that while Brittain had been declared fit after recovering from a knee injury, the defender was not yet ready to handle the intensity of the derby after missing several weeks of action. “Cal wasn’t quite ready,” Eustace said, adding that Icelandic forward Arnor Sigurdsson was also unavailable due to illness, despite training the day before.
Both Brittain and Sigurdsson had missed Blackburn’s previous win over Bristol City, but were expected to return for the Preston fixture. However, in reality, neither was fit enough to be involved. Sigurdsson’s illness and Brittain’s knee issue meant Eustace was forced to shuffle his squad again.
Eustace further explained that Lewis Baker, who had been taken off during the game, was substituted mainly for tactical reasons, but his earlier injury from Greenwood’s challenge made it an easy decision. With Carter filling in capably at right-back, Brittain’s return is eagerly anticipated, and he could come back into the lineup when Blackburn face QPR this weekend.
Despite the absences, Blackburn remain in a strong position. Their unbeaten start to the season has them well-placed in the Championship, and the upcoming home fixture against a struggling QPR side presents a great opportunity to extend their good form. “It’s important we keep a close eye on Cal and Siggy’s status heading into the weekend,” Eustace said, hinting at their possible return for the QPR clash.
Writer’s View
Eustace’s cautious approach with Callum Brittain is understandable. A high-pressure game like the Preston derby might have been too much for a player returning from injury, and risking further complications wouldn’t have been worth it. While Carter has stepped in admirably at right-back, Brittain’s return will give Blackburn more balance and attacking depth on the flanks.
Looking ahead, Blackburn’s strong home form bodes well for their clash with QPR. With three of their wins coming at Ewood Park, and QPR’s away form inconsistent, Eustace will be hoping to make it four from four. Brittain and Sigurdsson’s return could be key in ensuring Blackburn continue their unbeaten streak and maintain their early momentum.
