John Eustace has urged Blackburn Rovers to continue investing in the squad to improve their chances of success ahead of the January transfer window.
Rovers look set to head into the New Year in a strong position after five successive league wins. They have already collected more points in 19 games this season (34) than in 29 last term, when Eustace took over (33).
It has put them fifth in the Championship table with a game in hand. In what is a wide-open division, particularly outside the top three, there is a real opening for an unexpected team to take advantage.
That could be Rovers, based on their performances in the first 19 games. But they need bolstering in January to do so, with a striker and wide forward amongst their top priorities.
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Eustace spoke about the need to continually improve and add quality to the group. Whilst it may not end in promotion this season, he feels regular investment is necessary to ensure they continue to grow,
"I think we all want to improve the squad, the players, the staff, we all want to bring quality in," Eustace told The Lancashire Telegraph.
"We want to help the group and build properly. This is not about me or any individuals, it's about all of us wanting to improve and get better.
"If we're in a strong position come January, then why not? The league is wide open, we have to keep building and believing in what we are doing.
"I think it's very important tO improve and invest in the right areas. It is very evident where we need to do that. If we can bring quality into the building where everyone stands up and thinks 'bloomin' heck, the club are serious about improving', then that's what we want.
"I am not talking about promotion but it's about building and bringing more quality into this group. It is important, we all want success and that is not given to you.
"You have to earn it. It might not be this season but we are heading in the right direction. It is important to keep building in the right direction with quality."
Joe Rankin-Costello produced the match-winning assist at Hillsborough, crossing for Makhtar Gueye to head his first Rovers' goal. Both players have had to bide their time for minutes, with the provider making his first start for a month.
But Rankin-Costello's performance was another reminder that those who have waited in the wings are ready to contribute. Eustace again reiterated that everyone will be needed to make this a successful season.
"I thought he was fantastic and it's the quality we know Joe has," Eustace said.
"He always assists or scores, he can nick in with a goal. He defended very well at the end against some very tricky wingers. Joe is a fantastic member of the squad which has been proven until now.
"He's a very good player and whenever he does play, he never lets anyone down. He was up against some quality wingers today and he stuck to his task.
"I am delighted for him and it shows this is about the squad. I said after Saturday that those that haven't been involved are going to be match-winners and important members of the team throughout the season.
"Tonight was a prime example of that. We are missing a few players at the minute, nine tonight. Whoever is needed is ready.
"It was great to get Fadz on at the end to see the game out too. He has been frustrated as well with no game time. All these players aren't playing will be huge parts going forward.
"There are 27 games to go. Those that aren't heroes right now will be heroes at the end of the season."
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