IT should be party time at Ewood on Sunday, when Blackburn Rovers take on Leicester with both clubs assured of Premiership status next season.

And Rovers' senior players paid tribute to Tony Parkes, the man who steered them out of deep trouble.

Skipper Tim Sherwood, a major influence himself this season, said: "Tony has done a brilliant job and he made certain team selections Ray (Harford) never did when he was here.

"I think a big plus for us was the introduction of Billy McKinlay. If you look back at the time results started improving then that co-incides with Billy returning to the side."

Colin Hendry echoed those words when he said: "Tony has done a fantastic job. It's incredible really because any team who have not won in their first 10 games at this level of football have never survived. So that is a great achievement by the manager."

On the controversial penalty challenge with Juninho, Hendry added "He turned round to me and said 'You can't touch me, I'm Juninho'.

"That's why I patted him on the head. I let him know in no uncertain terms that I can touch anybody I want on the field of play.

"Opponents can take it from me that no matter what world class skills they possess, I'm in the game to prevent people doing damage to Blackburn Rovers."

With the team safe the fans can now have a party on Sunday.

The club are encouraging flags and banners at the ground - providing they aren't too big to be a safety problem, or inconvenience people - sponsors CIS are organising a balloon race and face-painting artists will be available in the BRIC from 12 noon.

Some 5,000 colour-co-ordinated balloons are also be handed out to young fans at the game and Rovers are bringing in a troupe of "Cheerleaders" used by other clubs in the past.

"We want to have a carnival atmosphere and for everyone to enjoy themselves and have a fun day," said stadium manager Mel Highmore.

Rovers' draw also meant that West Ham and Everton survive.

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