GARETH Ainsworth has hinted he could start himself as Wanderers travel to his native Lancashire tomorrow.

Joel Grant's suspension means Ainsworth will be forced into making changes to the side that faces Accrington Stanley, and the Blues boss said playing himself is one option he is considering.

Midfielder Sam Wood has been playing at left back and could be pushed further forward with a tinkered back four, as an alternative to the gaffer dusting off his playing boots.

Ainsworth said: "I'm the only natural wide man available to replace Joel, but there's options with a couple of players coming back I can shift round. If it's me, it's me, if it's someone else I'm expecting the same passion I get from all the other players.

"I'd like to be on the sidelines every game because that means the lads are doing well. I'm always ready to come on and hopefully I won't be needed, but I may start this weekend. We'll see."

Ainsworth admits he isn't sure what to expect tactically from tomorrow's opponents, who now boast former England international James Beattie in their ranks.

He said: "We've seen them a few times throughout the season. It's been different formations, they've tried different things, the personnel's changed quite a bit.

"James Beattie being up there's a shock but he doesn't seem to have played in the last few games.

"We're not totally sure which formation they are going to play because they've had success with a few."

Two keen spectators at the Crown Ground will be Ainsworth's parents, as he heads home for the first time as a manager.

The Blues boss said: "It's the closest trip for mum and dad. Blackburn to Accrington is only a couple of miles away so they'll be there.

"They've been at more or less every game throughout my career and it's nice for them to have to set off at quarter to three instead of Friday afternoon to get down here."