DINO Radice has been linked with the coaching post at Preston Grasshoppers.

Lightfoot Green coach Garth Dew will resign at the end of the season and Hoppers, who look certain to be relegated from National League Two North, have been very impressed by Radice’s work at Ramsgreave Drive.

After guiding Blackburn to safety in North West One last term, Radice spent the summer restructuring the club, from junior level to the senior squad, pledging: ‘One day I want to lead Blackburn to the National League.’

This term, Radice has transformed ‘Burn’s league fortunes, as well as leading them to the semi-finals of the Lancashire Cup.

That has alerted ‘Hoppers who have watched Radice’s progress with interest and he has been on their radar since Dew announced that he would be leaving the Lightfoot Green post.

However, it is understood Radice looks certain to stay at Ramsgreave Drive, as he bids to continue his work at the Blackburn helm.

Although Radice saw ‘Burn exit the Lancs Trophy 21-6 at Broughton Park last week, he praised the performance of his team after being forced to field a young side.

Radice said: “We had thirteen senior players unavailable for the tie, but I was really encouraged how the kids handled the semi-final.

“We’ve blooded several youngsters this season, and guys like Harry Bowers, who was an under-17 colt last year, impressed in the game.

“The youngsters who came in will have learned a lot from the game and they didn’t let themselves down.”

Meanwhile, Blackburn have a real opportunity to move above fifth place Burnage when they host the Cheshire outfit on Saturday.

‘Burn are just a couple of points behind Burnage and Radice is desperate to see his side continue their progress in the final four matches of the campaign, with Northwich, St Benedicts and Kirkby Lonsdale to come after this weekend.

“The Burnage match is a huge one, and we have to re-group and try and win the game,” added Radice.

“It is vitally important that we finish strongly.”