Rovers’ head of football operations Rudy Gestede has shut down rumours of an “uncomfortable environment” at the training ground.
Gestede was quizzed about the online rumours such as dress codes and players training with the Under-21 squad.
He also addressed the decision to “restructure the environment” last year, which included the departure of two long-serving members of staff.
“You have to make a decision when you look after the business in any kind of industry. We decided to restructure the environment last year and different jobs opened,” Gestede told RoversTV.
“Unfortunately, some jobs were not in the picture anymore so two of the long-time employees at the club left.
“After that, we brought new faces in the building and the environment is good. Everybody is excited about the new challenge.
“Being accused online of making people cry, asking people to cover their arms or putting Harry Leonard in the Under-21s – that was a surprise for me because I am not involved in where Harry is going to train, that is the technical staff.
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“I am not a dictator, you can dress as you wish as long as it is appropriate in a professional environment.
“That is not for me to say if you have to cover your arms, everybody is big enough to make their own decisions.”
The 36-year-old, who made 72 appearances for Rovers as a player, returned to Ewood Park in June 2024 to take up his new role off the pitch.
“If we have to have a tough discussion, I will have a tough discussion with you because we have got a business to run and standards to reach, but in a respectful way,” he continued.
“And if you want to have a tough discussion with me, I am open to it. I praise people, I try to create a good environment.
“It will be easier to come and ask the people at the STC (Senior Training Centre) if they feel good to work there and see how they react.
“But I believe and we believe altogether that we try to create a nice environment where performance is key, but also where people are happy to come and work there.”
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