EWOOD enforcer Garry Flitcroft is facing a battle to be fit for Rovers' showdown with Liverpool next week after suffering a new injury blow.

The inspirational skipper limped out of Saturday's victory at Southampton with a groin strain.

And scans have since revealed a tear which is threatening to keep the tough-tackling midfielder out of the game against Phil Thompson's Anfield giants.

"I first felt it in training on the Saturday before we played Leicester but I managed to get through that game after having an injection," said Flitcroft.

"But then I didn't train all last week and it felt sore against Southampton on Saturday.

"So when I had a scan on Sunday it revealed a tear and the medical staff are concerned that it doesn't get any bigger.

"I've still got a chance for the Liverpool game but we'll probably know more next week."

The injury meant Flitcroft had to miss Rovers' trip to La Manga in order to receive intensive treatment from physio Dave Fevre.

And it is hoped it will respond in the next few days in time for him to resume training when the squad return next week.