Nigeria defender Ryan Alebiosu returns to Blackburn Rovers training after injury scare

Blackburn Rovers have received a timely fitness boost after Nigerian defender Ryan Alebiosu returned to training following his injury scare in the sides’ mid-week clash against Southampton.

The 23-year-old was forced off during Blackburn’s disappointing 3-0 defeat to Southampton after a heavy collision left him unable to continue. The incident raised immediate concerns among the coaching staff and supporters, especially given the club’s busy schedule and defensive workload.

But head coach Michael O’Neill has cooled down injury fears, confirming the Nigerian defender swift return to team training.

Having returned to training, Ryan Alebiosu is now in contention for selection ahead of their upcoming Championship fixture against the league leaders.

“Ryan came through training today having come off in the game on Tuesday night, so that was a bonus,” O’Neill told RoversTV.

The update will be welcomed by Blackburn supporters, who have seen Alebiosu become an increasingly important part of the defensive setup. His athleticism, pace, and ability to cover wide defensive areas have added balance to the back line, and his potential absence would have forced O’Neill into reshuffling his defensive options at a critical stage of the season.

While Blackburn were left frustrated by the heavy defeat at St Mary’s, the focus has quickly shifted toward recovery and preparation. The squad is now working to regroup ahead of a demanding fixture against the Championship leaders, a match that could have significant implications for their position in the table and momentum going forward.

Alebiosu’s return to training not only strengthens Blackburn’s defensive depth but also provides tactical flexibility for O’Neill, who may now opt to reinstate him depending on final fitness assessments before matchday.

Further evaluation is expected in the final training sessions before the game, but early signs suggest the Nigerian international is firmly back in contention—offering Blackburn a much-needed lift at a crucial moment in their campaign.