LIFELONG Blackburn Rovers supporter Eric Kinder called it the ‘proudest day of his life’ after he was appointed as the club’s new Academy boss.

Blackburn-born Kinder, who has been Rovers’ U21s head coach since returning to the club, will start his new role with immediate effect.

And he said: “I’m absolutely delighted and it’s the proudest day of my life.

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“I’ve left a fantastic job and I’ve walked into an even better one, at my club, and I can’t wait to get started.”

Kinder was a coach in Rovers’ academy from 1999-2006 before spending seven successful years heading up Carlisle United’s U18s.

He was brought back to Brockhall in the summer of 2013 and this season has led his U21s side to the final of the U21s Premier League Cup.

He will continue to help the U21s on matchdays but their day-to-day training will be taken by assistant head coach John Filan.

Kinder, who will supported in his new role by Stuart Jones, was one of more than 50 candidates who applied for the post vacated by Phil Cannon.

Rovers managing director Derek Shaw said: “Some very high-calibre candidates applied, a thorough interview process then took place and Eric was the standout choice.

“His passion and knowledge of the club is unquestionable, he is hugely respected within the game and he is eager to hit the ground running.

“He has got this job on merit and we wish him all the best.”