Ince
PAUL INCE has won Premier League backing to
become Blackburn’s new boss this weekend.
Ince, 40, who led MK Dons to last season’s League Two
title, emerged as Rovers’ first choice to succeed Mark Hughes
earlier in the week.
A question-mark hung over his appointment, though,
because of his lack of coaching badges — especially the UEFA Pro
Licence.
But the Premier League board last night gave permission
for him to take the Ewood Park job — providing he earns the
necessary qualifications within two years.
It means Ince will become the first black Briton to
take charge of a top-flight team.
Danish legend Michael Laudrup was the other name in the
frame, after Steve McClaren and Sam Allardyce pulled out.
McClaren and Big Sam were both believed to be unhappy
at missing out to someone yet to gain any of the necessary
qualifications.
Dons striker Kevin Gallen reckons the ex-England
midfielder can be a big success.
The ex-QPR star said: “I’ve been very impressed with
Paul.
“The biggest thing is he has the respect of the players
for what he achieved in his career.
“He always demands 100 per cent from his squad. If he
doesn’t get it, that’s when you see him get angry.”
Ince’s first jobs will be to try to convince England
ace David Bentley to stay at the club and also keep striker Roque
Santa Cruz.
