Rovers youngster James Edmondson is relishing his time around the first-team squad ahead of the upcoming campaign.

The 17-year-old got a run out against Accrington Stanley and was selected to take part in the training camp in Austria, featuring in game two against TSV Hartberg.

He signed his first professional contract at Ewood Park last November, putting pen to paper over a deal that runs until the summer of 2025.

Edmondson has been at the club since the age of six and was part of the Under-18 side that finished fifth in the league last season and also reached the FA Youth Cup quarter-final. He has also played for the Under-23 side, making his debut at just 15 years of age.

The midfielder says the senior players have helped him settle in since the start of pre-season and has already noticed some big differences compared to youth football.

Edmondson hopes he has made a positive impression and is keen to make the most of any opportunities that come his way.

“It’s been good to be around the senior lads and the manager and being able to get that first-hand coaching from him and his staff," he said.

“I really enjoyed it. I trained with the first-team at the start of the pre-season and was over the moon to be taken to Austria.

“It’s so beneficial for me. Being around it is only going to make me better. You’re playing quicker against faster and stronger opponents.

“You have to take a lot fewer touches than you would at Under-21s or Under-18s level, that’s what’s really stuck out to me.

“You’re getting constant pressure when you’re on the ball, and the older lads have been really helpful in terms of bringing me into the group and talking to me.

“It’s been a great experience so far, as was the game against Accrington. I just want to continue trying to impress and show what I can do. The biggest thing for me is to make that impression.”