The 28-year-old Welsh international has had an injection to relieve a troublesome back problem and is walking again "almost pain free" according to manager Sean O'Driscoll.

But the Doncaster boss told the Free Press: "It could be up to four weeks before we know if he will be able to play a part in the run in.

"Brian is keen to give it a go and there are some important games in the last few weeks of the campaign.

"But it's a case of wait and see for the time being."

It looks less likely that on loan defender Jason Shackell will turn out again for Rovers this season.

O'Driscoll said: "Jason hasn't had surgery but it's a problem with the groin muscle which will take time.

"He's on a course of injections and back in rehabilitation but it looks to me as if it could take eight to 12 weeks and that would rule him out altogether.

"But he has a different view and he's determined to play for us again before the end.

"He's been spending time here - and at Wolves - but he always seems keen to get back here and is really motivated to get back in action.

"He's enjoyed his time here and has done a great job for us."

Centre backs Shelton Martis and Adam Lockwood, and midfielder Martin Woods, are all on the mend but are probably another week away before being ready for first team action.

None of them played in the midweek friendly against a strong Hull City side and are unlikely to figure in Saturday's match at Bristol City or next Tuesday' night's rearranged game at Preston.

The spate of injuries and disruption to midfield and defence has certainly affected Rovers in recent games but O'Driscoll was not looking for anyone else to blame after his team had allowed struggling Crystal Palace to hit back and snatch a point in Saturday's 1-1 draw at the Keepmoat.