Blackburn Rovers midfielder Vince Grella is on the verge of a return to the first team after a niggling thigh injury has kept him out for the past few weeks.

The Australian international was injured whilst on duty for his country in a friendly against Holland on October 12 and has been unable to take his place in Sam Allardyce's squad since.

But the 30-year old says he is very close to full fitness and a return to action.

"It's feeling good," Grella told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"The game against Manchester United may be a little bit close but I should be good for Portsmouth (on 7 November).

"Not only have I had the quad strain but I've had a bad dose of the flu as well so haven't had a good couple of weeks, but feel good now."