Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer believes new signing Sacha Petshi will continue to improve after catching the eye in the pre-season victory over Tranmere.

Rovers took the combative midfielder on a trial basis earlier this summer and the 23-year-old eventually did enough to earn himself a one-year contract with the club, with the option of a further 12 months.

Petshi had been plying his trade in France with CA Bastia, who were relegated to the fourth tier last season, while he has also had stints with Troyes and Serbian side Sloboda Uzice.

Given Blackburn’s on-going transfer embargo, Bowyer needed someone to replace Tom Cairney in the middle of the park and hopes Petshi will be it.

The Frenchman managed to complete 90 minutes in Friday’s pre-season friendly with Tranmere, which Bowyer described as a good test for his young side.

With the start of the Championship season less than two weeks away, the Rovers chief is hopeful Petshi will be ready for his first test of competitive English football.

“I was pleased with Sacha, to get 90 minutes under his belt was really good and he showed signs that he’s getting stronger and better, and he has done ever since he’s been with us, day by day,” Bowyer told the Blackburn website.

“He still needs a proper pre-season but he’s getting stronger.”

Blackburn are continuing to search for new additions to their squad from the free agency market, with trialist Nathan Delfouneso scoring in Saturday’s win at Oldham.

Jeffrey Sarpong could be another new face in the squad come the start of the new season after taking part in Friday’s game.

Despite being unable to spend money on any new players, Blackburn are priced at 8.50 to be promoted this season, while they are available at 26.00 to win the title.