July 9 2013

Alex Marrow

Crystal Palace midfielder Alex Marrow has re-signed for Blackburn Rovers.

The 23-year-old arrived from Ewood Park in August 2010 – initially on loan – and made 22 appearances over the season.

But he struggled to forge his way back in the Eagles line-up after suffering from niggling injuries and was sent out on loan at Preston and Fleetwood.

Marrow only turned out on four occasions for the Eagles last season and a return to Blackburn for an undisclosed fee will see him get regular football under boss Gary Bowyer.

"Alex is someone I know well from back in the youth and reserve team days here," said the Rovers manager.

"He's another player who I feel didn't fulfill his potential here. He went away to Crystal Palace and played towards the back end of the season and just missed out on the Play-off Final.

"He was hungry to come back here and make his mark, which he was unable to do the first time round. That hunger and desire is what we need."

Marrow said: "I'm obviously very happy to be back. I think when I left, it was probably the right thing to do at the time, because I didn't have the opportunities I was getting at Palace, but to come back is great.

"During the three years away, I think I've grown up a lot. I think I was a boy when I left and I'm just looking forward to getting back playing.

"Because I was here before, I think it was an easy decision. The facilities are first class and I know how good the club is, so it was a no brainer.

"Palace was a big learning curve, obviously being away from home. It's one of those things that you look back on and you know you've done and it gives me a bit more experience, so I wouldn't change it, but I'm glad to be back up north to be honest."