CROCKED winger Damien Duff could be in line for a shock return if Rovers' promotion push goes to the wire.

The Republic of Ireland international was originally ruled out for the rest of the season when he damaged a hamstring in the 2-1 defeat against Fulham a fortnight ago.

But Rovers boss Graeme Souness today revealed the 22-year-old wingman has made an amazing recovery over the last two weeks.

And, though Sunday's clash with Portsmouth at Ewood may come too soon for the inspirational Irishman, Souness hasn't ruled out the chance of a return against Preston North End next Wednesday should Rovers still need a result to guarantee promotion.

"I really did think Damien would be out for the rest of the season but he's ahead of schedule and that's great news," said Souness.

"He's desperate to play some part in the final run-in and I hope he's involved, too.

"But the last thing we are going to do is push him back before he's ready because we don't want him to damage his hamstring any further.

"At the moment, he has an outside chance for next Wednesday -- but that's all.

"If we saw Damien before the end of the season, however, it would be a massive boost for everyone concerned."

Souness also received a further boost from the treatment room today with the news that Craig Short is now back in contention for the Portsmouth clash.

The former Everton stopper had resigned himself to missing the game yesterday after twisting his knee in Tuesday's 4-1 win at Grimsby.

But the injury has since responded to treatment over the last 24 hours and Souness expects him to be ready to take his place.

However, Alan Mahon and Stig Bjornebye have now both been ruled out of the game.

A scan has revealed a slight tear in Mahon's hamstring while Bjornebye has tweaked a knee ligament and may not feature again this season.