Blackburn Rovers must take John Eustace action now as reputation grows: Opinion

Blackburn Rovers hired John Eustace in February, bringing him in after the departure of Jon Dahl Tomasson.

Blackburn Rovers found joy under previous boss Tomasson, leading them to the brink of the play-offs and building a side capable of playing some really good football at Ewood Park.

Ultimately though, when he left in the winter, it was the right time. Uncertainty off the pitch hampered Rovers’ progress and the relationship with the Danish boss became fractured, all while form on the field deteriorated and they slid towards the relegation zone.

It was then that John Eustace took the reins, tasked with guiding the club away from the drop. After his shocking departure from Birmingham City, the 44-year-old arrived with a point to prove.

He did just that, guiding Blackburn Rovers to survival. It went down to the wire though, with a last-day win over league winners Leicester City thanks to a Sammie Szmodics brace finally securing their Championship status for another year.

Against the odds

It’s only been uphill from there. Changes off the pitch saw Rudy Gestede come in as head of football operations while Gregg Broughton and a number of other notable figures moved on.

Eustace stayed at the helm though, and he’s worked fantastically.

After a fruitful pre-season and strong summer transfer window, Blackburn Rovers are one of three teams left in the Championship with an unbeaten record. They’ve won three and drawn two from their five matches to date, leaving them 3rd in the table and far above the relegation scrap many had tipped them to be embroiled in once again.

That deserves serious recognition for Eustace, and it should come in the form of a new deal.

The current terms

Upon arrival in Lancashire, Blackburn Rovers tied Eustace down to a deal until 2026. It was a sensible move, as if things went wrong and the club were to be relegated and opted for a change, they wouldn’t be facing a significant contract payout.

As their manager’s reputation grows amid his hard and successful work though, a move must be made to tie him down to a longer deal at Ewood Park.

Over 18 months remains on the contract, so there’s no pressing need to act immediately. However, taking action sooner rather than later is certainly advisable, as it will help fend off potential interest in Eustace if success continues and would be a deserved reward for his work to date.

After a harsh sacking at Birmingham City, Eustace looks to have Blackburn Rovers on the trajectory he had the Blues on. It makes for exciting times in Lancashire despite the unpredictability of the ownership, and signing Eustace to a long-term deal would only maintain the feelgood factor among supporters amid their fantastic start to the season.