Blackburn Rovers have confirmed senior executives will continue to attend matches after a campaign from a coalition of supporters to stay away for the remainder of the season.
BRFC Action Group have urged Steve Waggott, Suhail Pasha and Rudy Gestede not to attend the final eight Championship games. However, Rovers have responded in a statement stating they will continue to show their support for the team by being at the matches.
The club reiterated their commitment to open dialogue with supporters' groups with the shared vision of supporting the team in their push for the play-offs.
READ MORE: Blackburn Rovers supporters' groups send drastic request to club officials
"Blackburn Rovers acknowledge the statement issued this morning by members of the fanbase and welcome their collective call for unity during the closing stages of the campaign.
"As we enter the final eight Championship fixtures of the season, our focus must remain on supporting the team in what could be a decisive period for the club.
"With the prize of a place in the play-offs and a chance for promotion to the Premier League at stake, unity and a positive atmosphere at matches will be crucial in helping the players and coaching staff achieve success on the pitch.
"We also want to reaffirm our commitment to open discussions with supporters.
"Rovers’ CEO, Steve Waggott, along with other senior executives, have held regular meetings with individual supporters and fan groups throughout the season to share updates on club matters and engage in meaningful two-way dialogue.
"These sessions have provided a valuable opportunity to exchange ideas, address any concerns and consider fan perspectives as part of the club’s ongoing decision-making process.
"We understand the importance of open communication and will continue to engage with fans as we work towards the long-term success and stability of the club.
"The passion and commitment of our supporters is what makes this club so special.
"While differences of opinion exist, our shared goal is clear – to drive the club forward together. Now, more than ever, we urge everyone to get behind the team and show your support for this final push.
"As part of their professional duties and commitments to the club, Blackburn Rovers’ senior leadership group will continue to attend games – representing the club and showing support to the players and coaching staff for the remainder of the season."
Head coach Valerien Ismael thanked the supporters for their focus on backing the team. He says their focus is on achieving success on the pitch and hopes for unity at Ewood Park.
"I think it's a difficult situation to hear that. I think that the positive side is they're ready to support the players because this is what the players need. They need to have the fans behind them," Ismael said.
"I know that for some time there have been some issues between fans and board but I think it's important to show that they care about the club, that everyone cares about the club.
"I know it's not the first time I saw something happen. I think it's a deep problem, not from yesterday. So I think that you have to deal with, to accept, to know that.
"Every club has its own story and its own problem. Different culture, different identity, different past and different owners.
"So you have to deal with that. You cannot come and say, I want to pick a club when everything is fine. So it's our job now, it's a challenge to deal with."
"My focus is just to be focused on the training, on why I'm here, on the game. I think it's right when the fans say they want to support the players because this is what matters for us on the match day.
"As long as the fans are behind the players, this is what I'm pleased about with the statement, that they are ready to support the players.
"The only thing we can do is to be focused on our job. Our job is to make sure that we can perform on the pitch and that the players are able to compete and to get that confidence back through a win."
Share