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Blackburn Rovers are building towards the new season, with hopes that they could be in contention for the Championship play-offs.
After missing out on the final day of last season, Valerien Ismael is doing all he can to get his team prepared for next weekend’s fixtures; however, there is still more work to be done.
Tyrhys Dolan has joined Espanyol after his contract at Ewood Park expired this summer, while Callum Brittain is liked by Derby County and Middlesbrough.
Getting players in is a must, with depth required in multiple positions; however, Ismael has spoken of his happiness in one area in particular due to the summer business the club have already done.
Ryan Alebiosu says Ismael has already improved him since joining Blackburn Rovers
Ismael has already confirmed that he is happy with his coverage in the right back position due to the signing of Ryan Alebiosu.
Now the latest Blackburn star has been speaking to the Lancashire Telegraph about his life at Ewood Park since joining and how the pre-season training in Spain went.
He said: “Pre-season camps are always really important, especially as a new player.
“It’s always beneficial because it’s easier to gel with the group, and you learn things about different people, how they operate. It’s been really worthwhile and a great camp to be part of.
“Working with the gaffer too, learning the way we press, which is a key element in our game off the ball.
“He’s shown me the way he wants to press, especially as a full-back who has a lot of energy. As much as I love to attack, defensive too, I have to be able to go up and down.
“So, he’s been talking me through what he wants me to do. It’s given me a better understanding of the way we play and different tactics, the way he wants me to play.”
Ismael’s opinion of Ryan Alebiosu
The Blackburn Rovers manager has already expressed his joy in the signing of Alebiosu, particularly due to the interest from Championship rivals in acquiring Callum Brittain.
He said: “We have already got a right-back, so we are not in a rush at the minute. We are in a very good position. He’s a very promising player. Ryan [Alebiosu] is exactly the profile we need.”
As the youthful full back continues to take on board the lessons being provided by Ismael, he may become a significant player in his tenure.
Ismael demonstrated last season exactly how he wanted his side to play, and while it may have taken time to see results, it did as they went unbeaten in their final six matches after seven matches without a win following Ismael’s appointment.
However, this tough period to learn his methods may have been worth it ahead of the new Championship season.