Hignett backs Blackburn Rovers boss Ince for glory

7:09pm Friday 4th July 2008

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FORMER Blackburn midfielder Craig Hignett believes Paul Ince has all the right credentials to be a major success as a Premier League manager.

Ince will take charge of his first session as Rovers’ new boss when the players report back for pre-season training on Monday.

And although the 40-year-old former MK Dons boss has no previous experience of managing at the top level, Hignett insists that will not prevent Ince from making a favourable impression in the Ewood Park hot-seat.

Hignett said: “He’s served his time in the lower leagues so he knows what management is all about, and he’s played at the highest level, so no-one can doubt his credentials and his knowledge of the game will be first class.

“So I don’t see it as a risk at all.”

The former Rovers ace, who made 71 appearances for the club between 2000 and 2003, reckons Ince’s first major test will come in the transfer market, with David Bentley rumoured to be a target for several rival Premier League clubs.

“It all depends on Bentley, doesn’t it? I’m sure Bentley will go so the first priority will be to get someone to fill his boots, and that won’t be an easy job because he had a fantastic season last season, he’s a very talented player, and he makes Blackburn tick.”

Hignett also believes it’s imperative Ince holds on to star striker Roque Santa Cruz.

He added: “He’s been fantastic. After Fernando Torres, I think he was the next best signing last season.

“He was absolutely tremendous and the goals he scored were fantastic for Blackburn.”