Blackburn Rovers sign Jay Spearing on loan from Bolton Wanderers

Bolton Wanderers have allowed captain Jay Spearing to join Championship rivals Blackburn Rovers on loan for the rest of the season.

The 26-year-old spent a loan spell with the Trotters before signing permanently from Liverpool in 2013 and was appointed skipper by Dougie Freedman last season.

However, he has started just once since Neil Lennon became manager in October and has moved across Lancashire in search of more regular football.

The midfielder could make his debut when Rovers host Fulham on Saturday, but is ineligible for the FA Cup.

Spearing was in talks over a move to Watford before they brought in Ben Watson on a free transfer from Wigan Athletic.