The Olympics are a glorious opportunity for players from countries which rarely play on the big stage.

New Zealand have not qualified for the World Cup since 1982, so it was little wonder Blackburn's 30-year-old captain Ryan Nelsen jumped at the chance to go.

But the hugely reliable defender seems certain to return in time for Rovers' first game of the season, with his All Whites side expected to make up the numbers.

He will be joined by Celtic's Chris Killen - hard-working with plenty of Champions League experience, although his goal-scoring record is nothing to write home about.