John Eustace believes it would be a real 'sign of intent' if Blackburn Rovers could keep Sam Szmodics after he scored on his return against Derby County.

Rovers' star man made his impact as netted a crucial third goal and set up the fourth in a 4-2 victory on opening night at Ewood Park. With speculation still intense around Szmodics' future, he put that to one side and showed his loyalties to Rovers.

Whilst a move to Ipswich Town is far from ruled out, this was a positive sign for Rovers in their hopes of retaining the 28-year-old.

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Eustace had little doubts about including Szmodics after he gave the nod that he was in the right frame of mind to play.

"Look, it's out of my hands. I coach the team and that's what I am concentrated on," Eustace said.

"Sammie has been a true role model and a proper professional with dealing with what's been going on. I asked him if he'd be available for 20 minutes off the bench and he said 100%, he couldn't wait to get out in front of the home fans.

"It's not been easy. He hasn't played any game in pre-season and he's trained on his own as well. It's been a difficult time for him.

"It's not fair on the lad, it's not fair on the group with what is going on. We need that to come to a resolution as quickly as can. Then we can build a proper football team and keep the good spirit with us.

"He's a good player, isn't he? His attitude has never been in question, he's a fantastic pro.

"He's the life and soul of the dressing room, he's been going through some very difficult times in the last couple of weeks.

"He's a good player so I always expect him to be like that if he's on the pitch."

Rovers could still sanction a sale if Ipswich or another club meet their asking price for Szmodics. But until that happens, it's now evident he will be involved and is committed to the club whilst the speculation continues.

Eustace believes it would be a massive statement if Rovers retained his services and added more quality to the group before the transfer window shuts.

"It's not just for me but for the whole football club, if Sammie was to stay it would be a real sign of intent," Eustace said.

"If he stays and we can add three of four more quality players to add to the group to make us better, then we'll have a very competitive football team.

"I'm sure it could drag on until the end of the transfer window, I'm pretty sure that will be the case. It's about managing him and the group properly."