DAVID Batty's future seems certain to be sorted out, one way or another, before Blackburn Rovers return to Premiership action.

Neither the club, nor player, are talking openly about the situation which developed on the eve of last Saturday's win over Sheffield Wednesday.

But I have no doubt the matter is being dealt with behind the scenes.

Whether Newcastle United offer a way out for Batty remains to be seen.

They have other problems on their hands at the moment, trying to sort out the Faustino Asprilla deal and North East sources said today that everything else, including any interest in Batty, is on the back-burner.

Rovers have denied any official contact from Newcastle.

But their interest in the player is widely known.

In the absence of any official comment, rumours will continue to circulate until a decision is announced.

Especially in view of Batty's early departure from the training ground last Friday.

And his subsequent absence from the squad - without explanation - which took on Sheffield Wednesday.

So, from Rovers' point of view, the sooner the matter comes to a conclusion the better it will be for all concerned.

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