Grella has struggled for game time at Ewood Park so far this season after picking up a couple of injuries.

However, he is now firmly in the frame for a first team return and Emerton is looking forward to seeing his friend make a big impression on the Rovers faithful.

He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "Vince is a fantastic player. Unfortunately, the Blackburn fans haven’t had much of an opportunity to see that as yet.

“Knowing Vince, he is definitely looking at the situation as an opportunity to get himself some game-time and show the fans what he is all about."

Having played numerous times at international level with Grella, Emerton is well aware of the qualities that the former Torino man brings to a side.

“He can put a tackle in when he needs to, but he's very comfortable on the ball and his distribution and range of passing is second to none. I think the fans can expect to see that of him.

“I hope he becomes a popular player with the fans here, he’s got the ability to do that," said Emerton.

Blackburn entertain Middlesbrough this weeked in the English Premier League.