DERRICK Williams feels a better understanding among the Blackburn Rovers backline has helped bring about an upturn in their defensive fortunes.

Rovers are set to revert to the team, and back four, that won consecutive games against Brentford and Newcastle last month when they travel to local rivals Preston tomorrow.

That will mean a recall for Ben Marshall at right back with the 25-year-old available after suspension.

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Ewood boss Owen Coyle has struggled to name a settled back four this season because of injury and is still without central defenders Tommie Hoban and Elliott Ward although Gordon Greer is now fully fit.

Williams has also spent time on the sidelines but after regaining his fitness and his spot in the team, the 23-year-old feels Rovers are bearing the fruits of a more settled backline.

“I think every game we’re getting better and better,” Williams said.

“We’re getting to know each other more and talking more which makes it so much easier when you have that understanding.

“Recently we’ve been doing that well, everyone at the back is helping each other out and I think that has been showing with the blocks we’ve been putting in and we’re all putting our bodies on the line.”

Rovers were below their best in the 1-1 draw with Huddersfield last weekend, but Williams preferred to look at the positives of making it three games unbeaten, rather than dwell on the performance.

He added: “I think it shows how far we’ve come so to get seven points from nine against Brentford, Newcastle and Huddersfield. We’d have snapped your hand off for that.

“A lot of people are dwelling on how badly we played last weekend which I don’t think they should, because although we did have a bad game, we still managed to get a point out of Huddersfield who are one of the best teams in this league.

“Passing and moving, they were top drawer, so that was a good point for us.

“We know now we need to make it right and get a win at Preston and keep the run going.”

Rovers have now collected 18 points from their last 12 games ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Preston.

And Williams , who has made 15 appearances since his summer move from Bristol City, added: “It gives everyone confidence because in the last three games we’ve played three big hitters in my opinion.”