BLACKBURN Rovers striker Paul Gallagher is aiming to force his way back into plans for Saturday's trip to Newcastle United.

The Scotland international has been restricted to just 45 minutes of action so far this season after tearing a thigh muscle in training two weeks ago.

But a scan has revealed the former Academy starlet is now on the road to recovery and he hopes to be in the frame for a recall this weekend as Rovers go in search of their first victory of the new season.

Gallagher was the match-winner for Rovers on his last visit to St James's after grabbing the only goal in a 1-0 victory there last December.

But a place on the bench may be the best the young Scot can hope for at the weekend with Rovers likely to stick with Jonathan Stead and Paul Dickov up front.

Gallagher's only appearance of the season so far came as a second half substitute against West Brom on the opening day of the season.

Since then, he has missed the two defeats at Southampton and Arsenal and the 1-1 home draw with Manchester United.

But his imminent return to fitness will come as a timely boost to Rovers given Dwight Yorke's recent sale to Birmingham City.

In the meantime, Rovers' latest arrival Jay Bothroyd took part in his first training session on Friday and the reports were he looked sharp.

Bothroyd, who has signed on a season-long loan from Perugia, could find himself competing with Gallagher for a place on the bench this weekend.

Meanwhile, Sheffield United are reported to be interested in signing Rovers striker Matt Jansen.

Blades boss Neil Warnock is said to be interested in taking Jansen on loan with a view to a permanent deal.

But Rovers' chief executive John Williams today said the club have not been contacted by the Coca-Cola Championship outfit as yet.