Blackburn Rovers manager Paul Ince has revealed that former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler has not agreed a deal yet.

Fowler has been on trial at Ewood Park, but the 33-year-old has reportedly turned down a pay-as-you-play deal.

Ince said: "The situation with Robbie is still up in the air, so he won't be involved against Grimsby.

"These things do take time, especially when the agent gets involved.

"I'm not unsure about Robbie, I'm just unsure as to when it will get done.

"There is no deadline, though, because he is a free agent and not tied down to the transfer window."

Ince will rest a number of key players for the Carling Cup clash against Grimsby.

He explained: "Andre Ooijer and Roque Santa Cruz played 90 minutes for their national teams last week and again against Hull at the weekend.

"I'm not happy about that and I'll be speaking to their international managers about it, but they will need a break."