It's 'time to repay' Ismael - Gardner-Hickman

Blackburn Rovers' newest addition Taylor Gardner-Hickman is keen to be reunited with boss Valerien Ismael after the international break.

Ismael handed Gardner-Hickman his league debut at West Bromwich Albion in 2021, a move which launched the midfielder's career.

"He put his trust in me, he gave me my debut and now it's time to repay the favour, which I'll be doing my best to do," Gardner-Hickman told the club website.

Gardner-Hickman was just 19 years old when Ismael decided to put his faith in him.

"He helped me tremendously," Gardner-Hickman added. "He helped me make that transition from a boy to a man, really, and helped me off the pitch as well.

"He knows what I'm about, he gives me confidence, and I know what he's about and what he wants, how his teams play. I'm ready to give him my all. I can't wait to see him again."

Blackburn take on Watford next up in the Championship on 13 September (15:00 BST), with each side having won one of their four games to start the league season.