Blackburn Rovers manager Tony Mowbray says he is set meet with Jack Rodwell's agent as he looks to confirm the future of the former England international at the club.

Rodwell made 22 appearances for Rovers last after joining on a short term contract in August, and has been offered a new deal at the club, although it has yet to be decided if he will accept that offer.

Mowbray is now set for further talks with the player's representatives about his future, as he told the Lancashire Telegraph: “We’re at a stage, I’ve just got back, and his agent has been on the phone to sort a meeting.

“I’m happy to sit down and we’ll see where we both stand."

The Rovers boss also admitted that he is happy for Rodwell to remain at Ewood Park next season, as he added: “I like Jack Rodwell as a human being, as a football his talent is unquestionable.

“I have no problem with Jack being in and around our squad."

Mowbray does however believe that any decision made by Rodwell will depend on first team opportunities, as he revealed: “He’ll want to know, ultimately, if he is going to play more in the team.

“That will come down to our recruitment, and to him, showing me the devilment he needs to find in his game to make sure he gets in the team.

“If he forces his way in to the team and the team is winning then he will stay in the team.”

It was previously reported by the Lancashire Telegraph that Italian top flight sides Torino and Sassuolo are both interested in a move for Rodwell.

The verdict

This is an interesting one for Rovers.

It seems as though Mowbray is keen to keep a player with Rodwell's ability and versatility available as an option, but that he is not going to start the season as part of Rovers' first team plans.

If Rodwell is to get an offer that presents him with first team opportunities, particularly if it is in the top flight as suggested by the Italy links, then it could well be difficult for Rovers to keep hold of the former England international.