ROVERS defender Markus Babbel picked up a thigh injury against Fulham yesterday and could be out for six weeks.

The untimely injury to the experienced on-loan German international has created a real defensive headache for Rovers' boss Graeme Souness.

The versatile Babbel was covering for the suspended Lucas Neill at right back and damaged the 'kicking muscle' in his thigh after an impressive foray down the right and a cross into the box.

Early estimates suggest he will be out for at least a month. Neill still has two more games to miss of his suspension following the red card received against Liverpool. And key central defender Craig Short, who has been injured since pre-season is still some way off returning to match action.

Rovers have now slipped to three successive home defeats in the Premier League, with the defence coming under severe scrutiny. The injury to Babbel can only add to the concerns.