The League Managers Association has described the verbal abuse that Steve Kean has been receiving from sections of Blackburn Rovers fans as "unacceptable".

Kean has come in for heavy criticism following a string of defeats, culminating in yesterday's 2-1 loss to Bolton Wanderers at Ewood Park last night.

While acknowledging a supporter's right to voice their opinions, the LMA believes that some Rovers followers have "stepped well beyond the mark".

"During this period, Steve Kean, [the owners] appointed manager, has had to endure a significant injury list," read a LMA statement. "When results continue to be bad on the field, fans who give up their hard-earned money to support their club have a right to voice their opinion.

"However, the aggression and abuse levelled at Steve over recent weeks has stepped well beyond the mark and is as unacceptable in football as it would be in any other profession.

"It is to Steve's significant credit that he has shouldered this continued onslaught with dignity and professionalism and has continued to work with his players to try and improve results on the pitch."

The defeat to Bolton has seen Blackburn slip to the bottom of the Premier League table.