Ex-Celtic defender Charlie Mulgrew ready to shine for Blackburn after overcoming “devastating” start at Ewood Park

BY ALAN TEMPLE – @CCP_Sport

CHARLIE MULGREW insists he is finally ready to show Blackburn fans what he is capable of after recovering from a “devastating” start to his Ewood Park career.

The former Celtic star made the switch to the SkyBet Championship in the summer, joining Owen Coyle’s men on a three-year deal.

However, the Scotland internationalist lasted just half-an-hour of his Blackburn debut against QPR before suffering a calf injury which left him sidelined for more than a month.

Having fought back to full fitness, Mulgrew came off the bench against Nottingham Forest 10 days ago before playing 40 minutes in the 1-0 defeat at Bristol City at the weekend.

After those cameos, the 30-year-old now finally feels ready to kick-start his career south of the border.

Mulgrew told the Lancashire Telegraph: “It’s was massively frustrating. I’ve come here to play games – that’s what my job is and that’s what I want to do. For that [injury] to happen was devastating, but once it does happen you’ve just got to look forward

“I’m building my minutes up. When you’re coming back from injury you have to build up your strength, so it’s worked out perfectly. I’ve rushed back in the past and it’s not benefited me, so it’s important I get it right.

“It’s a bit frustrating – you’re just dying to get going after a few days’ training. But it’s important you build the strength in the muscle – I’ve done that and now I’m ready to go.”