Dunn will be on the bench against Wigan tomorrow having been sidelined since August 28 with an Achilles injury.

And he is desperate to show just how much the squad are behind their beleaguered boss, whose future has been called into question by a run of 10 Barclays Premier League matches without victory.

"I find it a little bit strange reading the papers. It is not just the manager that can affect things, it is the players as well," said Dunn.

"Why would we not be totally focused and 100% behind the manager when it is going to affect us in the long run?

"I think it (criticism) has been a little bit harsh. Every Premier League manager comes under so much pressure nowadays.

"The manager has been a top player and he's been in far more difficult positions than this so I'm sure he can take the pressure."

Dunn is a fortnight ahead of schedule in his return from injury but dismissed the notion he was being rushed back in a crisis.

"We have worked hard with the medical staff and it is pleasing I'm back a little bit earlier," he added.

"I feel fit and sharp. I have come back from injury a little bit early far too many times so I wouldn't put myself at risk until I feel ready.

"I've been chomping at the bit for maybe a week or two."

Dunn's return is a timely boost for Ince, who had no hesitation in telling the midfielder he would be among the substitutes tomorrow.

"I'm over the moon. It has been long hard road because we lost Dunny at a time when we were going well," said the Rovers boss.

"He is an exceptional player and he give us something different we haven't got in the side.

"He has been busting a gut to get back in for the last two weeks and now we have him back in the squad it should give everyone a lift."