Fowler to face Gunners after signing Blackburn deal

Former England striker Robbie Fowler has agreed a three-month deal with Blackburn Rovers and goes straight into the squad for Saturday’s Premier League match against Arsenal, Rovers boss Paul Ince confirmed on Friday.

The 33-year-old former Liverpool, Leeds and Manchester City forward, who had most recently been playing for Championship side Cardiff, has been training with Rovers since his former Anfield and England colleague took over as manager at Ewood Park.

“I am pleased he has signed as he is a proven goalscorer,” Ince said after the final details of the pay-as-you-play deal were worked out.

“It is not so long ago he was banging in the goals at Anfield. I believe he can still do it at this level. If he does well there is no reason why we can’t extend the deal.”

Fowler had been a free agent after leaving Cardiff during the pre-season. He was offered a performance-related deal with the Welsh side but turned it down for the chance of a trial with Blackburn.

Cardiff reached last season’s FA Cup final but Fowler played no part in that run having been sidelined for the second half of the season with a hip injury.