STEVE Kean has tipped Ruben Rochina to have a big Blackburn Rovers future after handing him his full Premier League debut on Saturday.

The 20-year-old Spaniard played just behind lone striker Roque Santa Cruz in the 2-0 defeat at Everton and produced an encouraging first half perform-ance.

The former Barcelona youngster tired as the game wore on but, having previously hit four goals in as many reserve games, boss Kean insists he only added to his growing reputation.

He said: “I thought he was excellent. I didn’t tell him he was playing until the morning of the game because I wanted him to get some sleep.

“I thought he showed good composure, good awareness and he picked out his passes.

“I thought he hit a brick wall near the end and he was shattered but I think the fans will see he is a special talent and has a big future.”