 However, in the 2002–03 season he only played three league games and one UEFA Cup game; Hignett was sent on loan to Coventry City halfway through the season but suffered a hairline fracture of his leg at Bramall Lane on 28 December 2002 which ended his loan spell.After returning, he scored on the final day of the season which was to prove to be his last appearance for Blackburn Rovers.He played 68 times and scored 14 goals for Rovers before being released.