EWOOD chief Graeme Souness believes Academy youngster Jay McEveley could be a future star in the making after the 17-year-old shone in yesterday's 1-0 win over Middlesbrough.

Souness spoke in glowing terms about the young defender after he took the opportunity to impress in what was only his third game in the Premiership.

And, providing the amiable scouser keeps a level head about his new-found fame over the next few years, then Souness is adamant he has what it takes to make it at the top level.

"We are very pleased with him, especially given he's a centre back whose playing out of position," said the Rovers boss.

"If we can keep his feet on the ground, stop him from getting the big head on, and hope that he avoids injury then we feel he can go on to achieve a great deal in this game.

"I think people saw what he's about 15 minutes into the second half when he was second in a race going into our box with Geremi but he caught him up and proved too powerful.

"He has a wonderful physique, he's a proper athlete, and that will stand him in good stead."