Dom Hyam believes that Rovers will reap the rewards of their positive approach even if there is an element of risk at times.

John Eustace’s men had some good moments in front of goal at Watford but failed to make them count as they eventually left Vicarage Road empty-handed.

Rovers have made a positive start to the campaign, currently sitting in the top six thanks to their almost-perfect home record. However, there have also been a few examples of the risks attached with playing out from defence.

“You can’t replicate the games under the lights at Ewood and that pressure, but we do a lot of drills that are intense so that when it comes to big games, it is a little bit easier,” said Hyam, who was inches away from getting on the scoresheet against the Hornets.

“It can be risky at times, we want to play a good brand of football and play how we feel is the right way.

“We get the frustration that sometimes it can be a little bit close and a little bit scary, but it is the rewards we are trying to gain.

“We are trying to become a better team so I would say stick with us, and the fans have been loud. It is all a process and we practise it, there is a risk and reward to be had.”Hyam has featured in every league game so far this seasonHyam has featured in every league game so far this season (Image: CameraSport - David Horton)

Centre-backs across the leagues are tending to see more responsibility on the ball as the game continues to evolve.

“It has been a few years now since you could start inside the box (from goal kicks). The game is evolving and there are different ways of looking at it,” the 28-year-old continued.

“Starting a centre-back on the ball so the keeper has got a few options, or giving it straight to me but I am down one side of the pitch so I haven’t got as many options.

“It is all a thought process and we are trying to become better, we have still got a way to go. We are showing the gaffer and the fans that we are trying to implement what we practise.”

Regardless of who is playing next to him in the Rovers backline, Hyam has typically been used on the left.

Despite being right-footed, it is something he has had plenty of experience with throughout his career to date.

“I must have played 95 per cent of my career on the left,” he grinned. “I am happy playing and there so are few left-footed centre-backs about.

“I have become so used to it that it would probably feel a bit strange playing on the other side now. I just want to be on the pitch.”

There is a strong togetherness in the camp, and Hyam reckons having good relationships off the pitch will help Rovers go the extra mile on it.

“It can be anything little, from going for a coffee with half the team or going for a meal on a week night - just to go out, share stories and bond,” he said.

“The gaffer is quite big on us being together and it is no hidden fact that you run a bit more for your mate rather than team-mate.

“It is a busy schedule but if and when we can, we like to keep socialising and keep spirits up.”