Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes won't take any risks with Steven Reid's comeback.

"We are not going to rush Steven back," said Hughes.

"Even though we've lost a senior first-team player (Savage), we've waited so long for Steven to come back that it's really important that he's given the right amount of time to be ready.

"If Steven needs a little bit more time, or if there are any doubts that maybe a few extra days will help him, then that's what he will get.

"We have got to keep it steady with Steven. It's important that he's fit and strong and able to keep up with the demands of the Premier League.

"The process is on-going. He's not had enough games yet, he needs the games before we even consider him for the first-team."

Reid suffered a catalogue of injuries, including cruciate knee ligament damage, that kept him sidelined since August last year.

But Hughes is delighted with the progress that the former Millwall midfielder has made.

He told the Lancashire Evening Telegraph: "He looks fit, strong and really positive. He's got a smile on his face and he's done okay in the games he's been involved in.

"We are happy with what we've seen from him."