WHILE Graeme Souness and the rest of his squad jetted out of Manchester this morning, spare a thought for skipper Garry Flitcroft and the rest of Rovers' walking wounded who stayed behind at Brockhall for extra treatement

Flitcroft, Dwight Yorke and Craig Short were all 'gutted' to be missing the trip to Sofia as they battle to recover from various aches, tears and strains.

But the injured trio will certainly be with the rest of their team-mates in spirit as Rovers travel to Bulgaria knowing they have it all to do if they are to extend their European adventure beyond the first week in October.

"I'm absolutely gutted to be missing out," said Flitcroft.

"The last time I was involved in a European game was when we played Lyon and it's a great experience.

"So I was desperately disappointed when I got injured on Monday because I want to play in every game I can.

"But we'll be there with the lads in spirit, even if we can't be with them physically on the pitch, and I'm confident they can come away with the result we need."

Despite Flitcroft's disappointment at missing out, he has been heartened by the news that the shoulder injury he sustained against West Brom is not as bad as first feared, so much so that he could have a chance of returning in time for Sunday's game against Tottenham at Ewood.

He said: "I had a scan yesterday morning and nothing showed up so I'm in with a chance of playing on Sunday."