John Eustace hailed Dom Hyam’s resilience and says the skipper has been “magnificent” since he took charge at Ewood Park.

The centre-back had a tough night at Bristol City last week but was on top of his game in the victory at Leeds several days later.

"It is about the team, the togetherness which I keep pushing. There will be some good times, bad times and to get through it, you have to stick together,” said Eustace.

"Our back five was outstanding. Dom was never coming out of the team, he has been magnificent since I have been at the football club.

"He had a bad game, it happens. We don't get carried away with it, he played (at Leeds) and was top drawer.”

The head coach was also full of praise for Scott Wharton and Hayden Carter. The former played 45 minutes at Elland Road despite an injury issue, while the latter made his first start since January.

"Scotty came off on Wednesday and said he was fit to play (at the weekend), which was amazing,” Eustace explained.

“He had to come off at half-time because of his back again. Fadz (Kyle McFadzean) came in and he was superb.

"Hayden Carter, what a fantastic first game for a long time for him. To defend and play like he did, you can see why he is a top player."

Sam Szmodics has received plenty of plaudits after the Irish international hit 30 goals for the season.

Szmodics has shown huge amounts of quality in front of goal, but Eustace believes the forward's work rate out of possession has also contributed to his prolific form.

"Since I have been here, he has been magnificent,” he added. “To score 30 goals and 24 in the Championship is a huge achievement. 

"When he went through, we all knew that he would put the ball in the net. He is very calm in front of goal.

"His work rate off the ball is outstanding, that is why he gets his results. He has filled in different positions and ran his socks off. 

"Usually, you get what you deserve when you work hard. His goals have been outstanding since I got here and before as well."