KEVIN Davies has what it takes to go all the way to the top of his profession, according to his former Dell strike partner David Hirst.

And Roy Hodgson also believes he has signed a player whose attitude is spot on - "He's not a big-time Charlie," declared the Blackburn Rovers boss.

The vastly-experienced Hirst has never had any doubts that Ewood's new £7.25 million striker can become a really big star.

"He has the world at his feet," said Hirst.

"Kevin is an exciting player with a lot of potential. He is very willing to listen and learn and if he continues to do that he can go all the way."

Former Barnsley and Sheffield Wednesday striker Hirst would have won more than three England caps himself but for being plagued by injury problems.

And, when Davies made his England under-21 bow last season, his Southampton team-mate felt it was just the first step on the road to international stardom.

"I really believe he can go right through to the full England side," said Hirst.

"That's the goal for him to head towards and I don't see any reason why he can't do it.

"It's all up to him really. It's all there for him. "He has shown both at Chesterfield and here that he is an exciting player."

Davies would have had more under-21 caps and at least one England B appearance to his credit if it had not been for injury.

He recovered from ankle problems but then suffered a gashed knee which took some time to heal and put the block on his international aspirations.

But for those problems, he might even have figured in the World Cup reckoning.

Hodgson is certain he has backed a winner in Davies.

He sees some similar qualities to Alan Shearer in him, not his style of play but his attitude with both being ambitious and single-minded.

"He's not a big-time Charlie, he wants to succeed on the football field and win honours," said Hodgson who is still looking to bring in more new players.

"We have signed a young player with a great career in front of him and we certainly will not be putting any pressure on Kevin as regards the fee.

"He will be treated like everyone else and will fight for his place like everyone else.

"That's what he and all football players expect."

See also Peter White's interview

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