It is hard to believe that it has already been nine years since David Dunn’s last appearance in a blue and white shirt. Now, another Great Harwood lad is looking to keep climbing the ranks at Ewood Park.

Matty Litherland was one of several youngsters who signed their first professional contracts at Rovers earlier this summer.

The defender joined the club at Under-6 level and has continued to progress through the age groups over the years.

He made a positive impression in the Under-18 side and has since been given the chance to show what he can do for the Under-21s.

Litherland could now be on the path to emulate Dunn’s journey at Ewood Park, having also started out in the Academy ranks.

The ex-England international has been a source of support over the years, even making an effort to watch games.

“David and his family have always been very supportive and kind,” Litherland's mum, Wendy, told The Lancashire Telegraph.

“Matty played cricket at Great Harwood and his coach was David’s old coach. He kept saying, ‘We are going to lose you at 16!’

“I’m sure Matty would love to follow in his footsteps, even though they are different positions.

“It has been great to have a local star supporting Matty, he always made an effort to watch him and say hello.”

The defender’s fist professional contract at Ewood Park was a proud moment for the whole family after years of hard work and sacrifice.

“We are very proud of Matty,” Wendy added. “Until you have a child who is in the Academy system, you don’t quite realise the effort it takes from the whole family as well as the footballer.

“It’s the time spent and dedication, the hours they have to put in to reach the level that they do.

“It is also the extended family who help, you can’t always get to training so my dad has picked him up and driven across the country on many occasions. My poor daughter often got towed along!

“He has been there from the beginning so he has seen many people come and go over the years.

“He lives in shouting distance of Ewood Park and has aspirations to play for the club. He has had offers over the years to go elsewhere but wanted to stay.”