Rovers have lost their last six Championship outings, so this weekend's clash with the visitors from Bloomfield Road has assumed paramount importance for Sean O'Driscoll's side.

Rovers' problems, which culminated in a 4-1 defeat by fellow strugglers Barnsley, mean the encouraging start they made to life in England's second tier is now a distant memory.

And Rob Edwards, Blackpool's skipper, has threatened to exploit the first sign of weakness as his team look to arrest their own three-match winless streak.

Blackpool, one of the pre-season favourites for relegation, served notice of their ruthless streak by beating leaders Birmingham City earlier this term, but Edwards admitted: "I am disappointed not to have picked up a win since, especially the Coventry and QPR games when we went a goal up.

"However, I think we have done okay until now and it is good for motivation and self-esteem to have an unbeaten run."

Blackpool's preparations took a blow last night when manager Simon Grayson confirmed injury-plagued striker Daniel Nardiello is unlikely to take part against Doncaster.

"Whether's he's fit for the Doncaster game, I don't know," Grayson said. "He may be over his injury but whether he's actually fit to play a part is another thing."

Meanwhile, Rovers youth team lost their League Cup tie against Mansfield 4-1.

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Tommy Spurr suffered ankle damage at Home Park and the Owls were left without a fit senior left-back.

The squad were resuming training today after a weekend break.

Gilbert told The Star: "Hopefully I'll get a full week's training in before the game on Sunday and be available for selection.

"I've been stepping it up and already doing fitness work with the physios. The next step is joining in with the rest of the lads." Owls: P39