BOSSES at Blackburn Rovers paid tribute to Jack Walker, days before the second anniversary of his death.

Walker brought the club back from the depths of the lower divisions with massive injections of his own money in the 1990s, leading to the pinnacle of winning the Premiership in 1995.

Tomorrow's opening match against Sunderland at Ewood Park marks two years to the day since the fan turned club saviour died.

To mark the occasion, a wreath will be laid at the statue of him outside Ewood Park before the game, with the proceedings relayed to fans inside the ground.

Fans will also be able to pay their respects by laying a floral tribute of their own.

Speaking at a civic reception for the club at Blackburn's King George's Hall yesterday, John Williams, chief executive of the club, said: "We must never forget. The fact is, we are only where we are because of Jack Walker."