Kenny Jackett: Tommy Rowe still in contention

Outcast Tommy Rowe has been praised for his professionalism as he bids to work his way into the Wolves squad.

The former Peterborough man hasn't yet been included in a first-team squad this season, failing to make the bench for the games against Blackburn Rovers, Newport County and Hull City.

Rowe missed the second half of last season through injury, but is now available again and featured prominently in pre-season either at left-back or on the left side of midfield.

His continued absence, combined with the fact Rowe is out of contract next summer, means his Wolves future must be in doubt.

Could he be one to move out on loan in the coming weeks?

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"I haven't spoken to Tommy about his situation and would want to speak to him before anything," Jackett said. "His concentration after his injury problems has been on playing several games in pre-season, and under-21 games, and frustratingly he hasn't figured for us yet.

"But he's determined to make sure he pushes his way in to the starting XI.

"He's a superb professional and his and our focus is on being as strong as he possibly can, getting back towards full fitness and then making one of those left side berths his own.

"That's exactly where he is at the moment."

Utility man Rowe can also play in central midfield, but has yet to get a consistent run of games in the Wolves side since joining last summer.

He last played for Wolves in the 1-0 victory over Watford on Boxing Day and is one of a number of players out of contract next summer, including Kevin McDonald, James Henry, Scott Golbourne, Matt Doherty and Aaron McCarey.

Rowe, aged 26, joined Wolves on a free transfer from Peterborough, where he was captain and scored 27 goals in 199 games.

And Jackett said Rowe's versatility made him a good asset in the squad.

He said: "We brought him in predominantly as a midfield player, the midfield area now is competitive and the wide left position has been supplemented by Sheyi Ojo coming in, so there are some players ahead of him in every area.

"He played several times at left-back for us last year and we got results in those games.

"We know he can play a number of positions. Him getting into the team is his aim and he's open minded to play in any of the left-sided positions and doesn't really mind where he plays.

"He sees his versatility as a strength to get into the team, which is his aim now."

Meanwhile, tickets for this Saturday's trip to Cardiff City are now on general sale.

Some 850 have been sold so far and there are coach places still available.

The televised match kicks off at 5.15pm.