RYAN Nelsen has hailed Phil Jones’ contribution since breaking into the Blackburn Rovers side earlier this year and backed him to continue his footballing progression.

Nelsen is expected to continue his central defensive partnership with 18-year-old Phil Jones on Monday night, with Chris Samba still struggling with a groin injury.

He said: “We knew Phil Jones was a good player but this is the Premier League.

"You throw them in at the deep end and you don't know how good you are going to be no matter how good you are or what pedigree you have.

“I think I felt that when I first arrived. No one could have thought much and you are just thrown in there and go for it.

“Phil has taken it with both hands and the great thing is he is a local lad, he has come through the academy, homegrown player and he is doing the club proud and it is so good to see.”