Blackburn Rovers defender Andre Ooijer is backing fellow Dutchman Maceo Rigters to make a big impact this season.

Ooijer said: "I think it's a good thing for him to have the pre-season with us.

"Last season, if I looked at myself, I missed the pre-season and I found myself being thrown in at the deep end.

"But Maceo has come in and he's got the chance to get to know everyone, and I'm sure he'll pick it up very quickly.

"He's seen as one of the best up and coming young players in Holland and I'll do everything I can to try and help him settle in here."