ROVERS could come up against former loanee Stephen Hendrie on the opening day of the season, with Southend United eyeing a move for the former West Ham United man.

Hendrie spent last season on loan at Ewood Park after being brought in by Owen Coyle – but would feature just four times in the Championship.

The 22-year-old full-back was included in just one matchday squad in 2017 - the FA Cup fifth round defeat to Manchester United in Coyle's last game in charge - before returning to West Ham where he was released with a year still to go on his contract.

And that has attracted the attentions of Southend boss Phil Brown who is said to be a target for the Roots Hall side, according to the Essex Echo.

Hendrie appeared five times while with the Shrimpers at the start of 2016, while a number of Scottish clubs are also said to be interested in the former Hamilton man.

Rovers travel to Roots Hall on Saturday, August 5, the opening day of the 2017/18 League One season.