Blackburn Rovers and Luton Town square off on Saturday afternoon looking to retain their positions in the top half of the Championship standings.

While Rovers hold a one-point and two-place advantage over the visitors, both sides have failed to prevail in their last two fixtures.

Match preview

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After a summer of uncertainty involving star man Adam Armstrong, Blackburn started the season heading somewhat into the unknown.

However, Tony Mowbray will be relatively satisfied with accumulating seven points from their five fixtures, the only defeat coming at home to title-chasing West Bromwich Albion.

Despite the departure of Armstrong, Rovers have still managed to score in every league fixture, Ben Brereton Diaz and Sam Gallagher netting five times between themselves.

First-team additions also arrived during the closing days of the transfer window with Brighton & Albion youngster Reda Khadra one of a number of players to move to Ewood Park.

While they may have to remain patient for a starting spot, the extra competition is long overdue as Blackburn attempt to remain at the right end of the table.

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Luton will also be satisfied with their start to the new campaign, despite the disappointing results before the international break.

The Hatters have made some shrewd signings in recent months, including the acquisition of former Blackburn defender Amari'i Bell.

Nathan Jones will demand more from some of his other new faces, but sitting safely in 12th position will be deemed acceptable at this stage.

On the negative side, Luton have gone 266 minutes since scoring their last goal in the second tier, a streak which Jones will be desperate to end on Saturday afternoon.

Team News

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Blackburn will be without Hayden Carter after the defender was dismissed for two yellow cards against Middlesbrough.

Tyler Magloire could deputise at right-back, while Leighton Clarkson and Ian Poveda-Ocampo will hope to retain their places further forward.

Brereton Diaz is unable to play after Blackburn prevented him from linking up with Chile, a decision which should see Tyrhys Dolan return to the starting lineup.

Barring any injury issues, Jones could select the same Luton XI which started the game with Sheffield United.

The form of Gabriel Osho in a central midfield role will likely result in Glen Rea having to wait for his first league start of the season.

Blackburn Rovers possible starting lineup:
Kaminski; Magloire, Lenihan, Ayala, Pickering; Clarkson, Travis; Dolan, Poveda, Rothwell; Gallagher

Luton Town possible starting lineup:
Sluga; Bree, Burke, Naismith, Bell; Osho, Mpanzu; Cornick, Campbell, Onyedinma; Adebayo

We say: Blackburn Rovers 2-1 Luton Town

This is a fixture between two evenly-matched sides who will recognise that games such as this one could prove to be the difference between a playoff chase and mid-table. While Luton impressed during the opening month, we are siding with Blackburn who may benefit from the arrival of several fresh faces.

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