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Opinion

Three Callum Brittain replacements Blackburn Rovers could sign after worrying transfer update

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Blackburn Rovers fans will be fearing the worst after the latest update on in-demand right-back Callum Brittain.

The defender wasn’t included in the squad for Rovers’ pre-season friendly against Accrington Stanley after Brittain refused to play.

John Eustace wants to reunite with Brittain at Derby County and manager Valerien Ismael confirmed that he would be leaving.

“We’ve got an offer on the table. Callum decided not to play today on his own,” Ismael told the media.

“I spoke with him. I said we can let this game pass but from next week, we hope to have clarity.”

A new right-back will be needed, but with funds tight, who could they sign? EFL Analysis assesses three right-back options that Rovers could make a move for.

Callum Brittain controls the ball during Blackburn Rovers vs Watford
Photo by Rich Linley – CameraSport via Getty Images

Alfie Gilchrist – Chelsea

All of the reports have suggested that Alfie Gilchrist’s time at Chelsea is up and he will be looking for a new permanent home.

Gilchrist impressed for Sheffield United in the first half of the season before Chris Wilder phased him out of the squad due to signing too many loan players in January.

His ability to play right-back and at centre-back will be beneficial to Ismael depending on availability in the side.

Crucially, Blackburn would be a place where he can play regular football and utilise his previous Championship experience to bolster the Rovers squad.

Luther Wildin – Stevenage

Blackburn have recruited from the lower leagues in the past when finding full-backs, including when they signed Brittain, and Luther Wildin could be a solid option.

Wildin has made over 200 appearances for Stevenage and been a consistent performer for some time now.

Still only 27, Wildin is in the peak of his career now and while it may not be the most glamorous of signings, it could prove to be a solid purchase and provide a new option in the full-back slot.

Joel Ward – Free agent

After leaving Crystal Palace, Joel Ward is now a free agent and would provide valuable experience in the backline.

Ward was a mainstay in Palace’s defence for many years but is approaching the end of his career after turning 35.

He wouldn’t be a long-term option, and he would be a different dynamic for Blackburn, but it would be low-risk and high-reward.

The chance to play at a high level would no doubt still appeal to Ward and Championship football would suit his ability now.