Blackburn Rovers defender Ryan Edwards has admitted that he is hopeful of securing first-team football with the Championship outfit next season.

The 19-year-old, who has had recent loan spells at Rochdale and Fleetwood Town, is regarded as one of the brightest defenders in the lower leagues.

"We go back to pre-season training next Wednesday and I am determined to do all I can to impress the manager," Edwards told Sky Sports News.

"The manager knows me having worked with me in the reserves and hopefully that will work in my favour. I have worked hard over the summer and I am ready to hit the ground running when we return for training.

"Hopefully I will get the chance to play a few games in pre-season and show that I deserve a chance in the first team."

Edwards has been linked with a loan move away from the club this summer.