Tale of two Blackburn defenders

As one Blackburn Rovers defender itches to get back into the first team fold another leaves in order to gain this.

Earlier in the week it was thought that Andy Taylor would return to Blackpool for a further loan spell, however on Friday it was confirmed that the Rovers academy product and captain of the reserves has joined Crewe Alexandra on loan. Taylor ironically enough goes into the Crewe squad to face Blackpool today.

The defender itching to get back into first team action is would be captain Ryan Nelsen. The New Zealander, who all being well should be back in first team contention by the end of this year or early next year travelled with Rovers to Poland for their UEFA Cup tie during the week.

Rovers boss Mark Hughes said:

"Ryan's very positive with the way the injury is healing.

"He's the kind of guy who is desperate to get back as soon as possible We are having to get the reins on him because he's threatening to sprint around the block everyday he feels so good, that is very encouraging.

"He's very much on track and if anybody can get back sooner than expected it'll be Ryan Nelsen."

Initially I was disappointed to hear that Taylor was being shipped out on loan as I genuinely thought he could have been close to first team action with Rovers. But when you think about it at 20-years-old he still has plenty of time ahead of him and gaining first team football whilst on loan with Crewe will only benefit him and hopefully Rovers.

Dario Gradi is a fantastic manager who has nurtured some of this countries top talent over the years so under his wing Taylor should only flourish, so in theory he will only return to Ewood Park an even better player.

I just hope that some of my initial thoughts that maybe he won't return aren't proved true...

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