The 29-year-old has been sidelined so far this term with a thigh injury sustained during pre-season, on the back of being limited to just 13 appearances in all competitions last term due to an Achilles and hamstring problem.

But Wharton is back in contention after coming through 90 minutes with the Under 21s against Bolton Wanderers on Monday.

"He'll be travelling with us and I'll make a decision with Scotty how he feels, but he's a very valuable addition," said Mowbray.

"He's an experienced player and will be a big voice in the dressing room.

"He's a left-footed centre half and our left-footed centre half Sean (McLoughlin) has played every minute of every game at the moment so it's great to have potential options ready and an experienced player who could help us moving forward throughout the season."

Wharton's return further strengthens a Rovers squad that is already benefitting from a previously extensive injury list being trimmed, with the midweek win at Bristol City their third victory in a four-game unbeaten run.

"The evidence is there the other night when you're making substitutions.

 It's a tough game against a tough side, putting us under lots of pressure, and yet to bring on (Moussa) Baradji , his power and strength - bringing on all the players; (Augustus) Kargbo to hopefully break away and give them problems in behind their defence.

"It's a positive that we've got experienced players to bring on and help the team get the result that we did on Tuesday night."