GRAEME Souness believes influential midfielder David Dunn has the potential to be one of England's finest players.

The 21-year-old, who has bagged 13 goals in league and cup competitions this season, put pen to paper on a new deal this week, keeping him at Ewood Park until 2005.

And Rovers boss Souness said: "If he keeps listening to those around him and keeps learning, he has the potential to be a top football player," said Souness.

"He was as keen as we were to sign the deal and we are obviously delighted.

"He has signed a contract for four years and if everything goes to plan he will be signing another one when this one comes to an end."

It is a massive turn-around for the Blackburn-born England Under 21 captain Dunn, who handed in a transfer request last season after becoming disillusioned with his lack of first team opportunities.

But after Souness took the reins at Ewood, Dunn had a change of heart and has been a vital part of Rovers' promotion push this season.

His has been linked with a number of top Premiership clubs, including Manchester United, Leeds and Arsenal, but has pledged his immediate future to Rovers.

Souness said he compared favourably to other young players he had seen come through over the years.

"He is up there with them," he said.

"Dunny's strengths are that he is physically a strong man," said Souness. "He has got a wonderful technique and he has the right shape to him to be a midfield player. "All he lacks is a little bit of experience and knowledge but that will only come with time.

"The thing that determines how good he will be is how quickly he learns and acknowledges.

"He needs to keep listening to the people around him, the ones who have been there, and he needs to play in important games, like these two we have coming up against Bolton."

Dunn was made England Under 21 captain after bursting onto the Ewood Park scene this season. And full international honours could follow, said Souness.

"One will follow the other. If he does well with us those doors will open for him. He is bright enough to realise it is one step at a time. He has to keep playing well for Blackburn and if we can get out of this league then that would obviously increase his chances of honours."

The young midfielder said he would be looking for a move away from the club if Blackburn weren't promoted within three years, but Souness said he understood that.

"If you speak to him the only thing he is interested in is doing well for Blackburn.

"But I can understand that he wants to move on if we are not in the Premiership soon, but hopefully that will not be an issue.

It is our job to make sure it is not an issue."