Fowler could return to England

London - Former Liverpool and England striker Robbie Fowler is contemplating a return to English football with Championship side Blackpool after plans to play in India fell through.

The 36-year-old has played in Australia and Thailand since leaving English football four years ago following a brief spell at Blackburn Rovers.

He was set to appear in the new Premier League Soccer (PLS) competition in India before its latest postponement saw him change tack and head back to north-west England, where he made his name with Liverpool.

Now Fowler is training at nearby Blackpool, relegated from the lucrative English Premier League last season and currently pushing for an immediate return to the top flight.

In a series of posts on their official Twitter page, Blackpool said: "Former Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler has trained with the club today (Thursday) with a view to signing a permanent deal.

"No deal has yet been agreed but (Blackpool manager) Ian Holloway revealed in his press conference the striker has impressed and is close to full fitness."

Blackpool face Hull on Friday but the club dismissed suggestions Fowler would sign in time to face a side managed by former Liverpool team-mate Nick Barmby.

"Contrary to some reports, Fowler would not be available for Friday's game, should he sign a deal," Blackpool said.

An enthusiastic Holloway said "It's brilliant to have someone like Robbie at the club. He looked terrific in training and I don't think he's that far away from being fully fit.

"Has he got some quality, can he play a pass, can he score a goal? Yes he can. I still think he wants to play and he's got undoubted quality."

Last week Fowler, hired to play in West Bengal's PLS, tweeted the tournament appeared unlikely to go ahead.

"Ah well.. India looks like its cancelled, boots are clean and looking for a new place to play," wrote Fowler, sold for $530 000 to the Kolkata franchise at an auction last month.

The PLS, based along the lines of cricket's popular Indian Premier League, was postponed for a second time last week.

It was due to start on February 25, then put off until March 24, before the latest delay, which was caused by problems organising grounds. No new date has been set for the event to start.