Alan Shearer has backed Paul Lambert to guide Blackburn Rovers into the Championship playoffs come the end of the season.

Since the Scot took charge at Ewood Park last month, Rovers have collected 11 points from a possible 15 to leave them in 11th position.

If that form can be maintained, Shearer has insisted that there is no reason why his former club cannot be in contention for promotion.

"I'm delighted he's been given a chance here and I'm hoping he can get them to where they want to be - the Premier League. He's made a very, very good start," the Lancashire Evening Telegraph quotes Shearer as saying.

"Who knows? It might be too much of an ask to get an automatic place but I see no reason why they can't get in the playoffs, fingers crossed."

Rovers, who drew 0-0 with Nottingham Forest last night, travel to Reading on Sunday afternoon.