Szmodics features: The 3 high-profile exits Blackburn Rovers cannot afford to sanction in January

Blackburn Rovers have already had some notable outgoings during the January transfer window.

Rovers surprised everyone early in the window by allowing club captain Lewis Travis to go on loan to Ipswich Town.

Meanwhile, Bournemouth have recalled centre defender James Hill following his loan spell at Ewood Park.

That has put pressure on Blackburn to bolster their squad as they seek to reverse a bad run of play that has seen them fall down the Championship table.

However, it has also underlined the need of keeping specific individuals’ services after the February 1st deadline.

So, with that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of three players who Blackburn Rovers just cannot afford to lose at any price in today’s market.

Following an impressive debut season with Blackburn last year, Szmodics has taken things to the next level this season.

The attacking midfielder is Rovers’ leading scorer by a long by this season, and without his goals, the club would be dangerously near to relegation, while his work rate and dedication to the team should not be overlooked.

With his leadership setting a good example for his colleagues and his goals likely to be important as Rovers look to find a more clinical edge in front of goal, keeping Szmodics beyond the current transfer window will be critical to the club’s chances for the remainder of the season.

Pickering has been one of Blackburn’s most consistent performances this season, playing in his native left-back position.

The club has already recruited some much-needed depth to that area this month, with Ben Chrisene arriving on loan from Aston Villa until the end of the season.

However, that does not mean they can afford to be short in that area again, and Pickering’s experience will be critical with Chrisene still in his early stages of his career, so the 25-year-old’s recent signing of a new contract at Ewood Park until the summer of 2027 feels extremely important to Rovers.