KEVIN Gallacher's hopes of returning to action over Easter have suffered another injury setback.

The Scottish international striker, out since the start of the year with a troublesome calf problem, had rejoined the squad for training to suggest he could be back soon.

But now Gallacher has picked up a thigh injury which seems to have put his comeback on ice.

"He joined in last week but now has a problem with his thigh and we can't take a chance with it," said Rovers boss Brian Kidd.

But there has been a brighter spot for the manager this week with another long-term casualty, Billy McKinlay, starting to do some football work again.

McKinlay played through a groin problem for some time to help the team when injuries had hit other players.

But he finally had to submit to surgery.

His rehabilitation, however, seems to have gone well and he was able to join the rest of the squad yesterday.

So a comeback for the rugged Scot might not be too far away.

Ewood keeper Anthony Williams, currently on loan to Bristol Rovers, was outstanding for Wales under-21s last night but could not prevent a 1-0 defeat in Switzerland.

The Ewood ticket office will open on Good Friday from 11am-3pm and on Easter Saturday from 9am-5.15pm. It will be closed on Sunday and Monday, reverting to normal hours from Tuesday.

Ewood Blues are running coach travel to Arsenal on Tuesday, cost £16, depart Aqueduct car park 1pm. For more details contact 01254-53182.

Rovers Reserves face Birmingham at Hednesford Town's ground tonight (kick-off 7.15pm).

Arnaldo Longaretti, the Italian fitness coach brought to Ewood by Roy Hodgson, will join West Ham in a similar capacity next season.

Longaretti, a long-time friend of Hammers star Paolo Di Canio, has been released early from his contract.

"He only had a one-year deal and that was not going to be renewed. The manager made the decision and felt it was better all round for the break to be made earlier," said chief executive John Williams.

"We are not looking for a replacement. The kind of conditioning work he did is something that largely comes under Brian's jurisdiction."

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