Leo Duru will never forget his senior debut for Rovers after being with the club since Under-10 level.

The right-back played the second half against Stockport after being around the first-team squad in pre-season.

Duru "enjoyed every second" as Rovers cruised to victory at Edgeley Park to book their place in the next round.

“Obviously, there is always a chance but I didn’t know that I would get on the pitch,” he beamed after the final whistle.

“There were a bit of nerves kick in but overall, the excitement is there. You are ready to go and prove yourself and I enjoyed every second of it.

“It was my first time playing in front of the fans and when you can hear them getting behind you, it is really good.

“It was a strong performance from the team and that gave me confidence to go and be positive. Overall, a really good day.”

The youngster was named in the squad at times last season and had been eager for a chance to show what he can do.

“Last season, I got on the bench a couple of times but didn’t get on in the games,” he continued.

“It was a bit disappointing but I was patient, and obviously the first-team staff and the gaffer have put trust in me out there and I am grateful for that.

“I thought it was coming but I was patient, and I got the chance today and am really happy about it.

“It is the biggest day (of my career) so far. Hopefully, there are bigger days to come and I can go and prove myself in first-team football.”

Duru was quizzed over the possibility of a loan move this season to gain further experience in senior football.

“I am not quite sure yet,” he replied. “My priority is obviously Blackburn, it depends what they want from me.

“If they want to keep me as second-choice (behind Callum Brittain), that would obviously be great.

“I am not quite sure what the plan is but hopefully I can stay second-choice, push into the first team and just be there helping them out every week.”

John Eustace was pleased with what he saw from the youngster in the second half and believes he is making good progress after being around the first-team squad in pre-season.

“Leo trained with us a little bit last year and really caught my eye,” said the head coach.

“He has done really well in the games in pre-season and obviously we need competition for places in the full-back areas, with only Callum and (Harry Pickering).

“Leo came in and did a really good job for 45 minutes, he is developing nicely.”