Blackburn forward Fode Koita is keen to earn a regular spot in the starting line-up after he impressed during Monday’s 0-0 draw with Nottingham Forest.

The Frenchman was recalled to the Rovers line-up for the first time since September for the match at Ewood Park and he formed a strong partnership with fellow front man Jordan Rhodes, as the Lancashire outfit extended their unbeaten run in the Championship to eight games.

The 25-year-old’s performance also earned praise from boss Paul Lambert, but he knows he will have to work hard to retain his place in the starting line-up over the coming weeks.

He said: “When the manager came in he told us that he is going to need everybody and that everybody has got to be ready all of the time. I am a professional and I need to work hard. If I’m not in the team, I’ll do everything to be in the team.”

The former Caen player claims there is a strong team spirit at the club and he has praised the hard work that his team-mates are putting in, as Rovers continue their push towards the play-off positions.

He added: “It’s very, very easy to come into this team because everybody works hard and helps each other. When you come in, you just have to follow them.”

Blackburn are currently six points off the top six and they will be hoping to close that gap when they take on Reading at the Madjeski Stadium on Sunday. The Blue and Whites are available at 3.20 to win the match, whilst the Royals are on offer 2.38 and the draw is priced at 3.20.