STEVE Kean is determined not to let Phil Jones’ versatility work against him after tipping him to one day become captain for England.

The Rovers boss is relishing the prospect of the 19-year-old’s Rovers return, possibly in time for Blackpool’s Ewood visit in mid march, and believes he has a bright future in East Lancashire.

Central defender Jones started this season in the heart of Rovers’ midfield but, while admitting he can do a job there from time to time, Kean believes his future lies in defence.

He said: “If you are player and can play in a number of positions then sometimes that can be a disadvantage. You end up not doing one position, I see Phil long term as being a centre half for the club.

“We have to put him in the position where we can see him going from strength to strength and hopefully captain England one day.

“He is ahead of schedule. The sooner he is back the better. Having him back would be a massive boost. I know he has been working hard and his fitness levels will be very good. He should come back stronger.”

Having turned down a bid from Arsenal in the summer, Rovers rejected a number of enquiries for the youngster from Premier League rivals last month.

Jones penned a new deal last week that keeps him contracted to Rovers until the summer of 2016 and Kean is hopeful it will prove enough to warn off potential suitors.

“There is always going to be interest and the big clubs are always going to try to recruit someone of Phil’s stature,” said Kean. “There have been enquiries from a couple of big clubs and we are delighted he has decided ti pledge his future with us.

“We hope it is enough. If someone comes in with a really, really big bid then we will be speaking to Phil and his people who look after him.

“They are very sensible and give him good solid advice and hopefully he is playing and progressing and we can keep hold of him for the term of his contract.”