Derrick Williams is delighted to be ‘in the mix’ for a spot in the Republic of Ireland squad for their upcoming friendly.

The Rovers full-back was one of five uncapped players, alongside Darragh Lenihan, to be named in the 30-man provisional squad.

That will this week be trimmed to 25 ahead of the friendly in Turkey next week.

The 25-year-old is one four left-backs in the provisional list and is competing with Enda Stevens (Sheffield United) and Greg Cunningham (Preston North End) for a spot in Martin O’Neill’s full squad.

“I was happy when I found out,” Williams said.

“I know it gets cut down to 25 but to have your name in the mix is good.

“It’s just getting your name out there and showing people that I feel I should be around there.

“Hopefully if we can go up then next season it will give me and Darragh more exposure.”

Rovers maintained their five point gap at the top of League One courtesy of the 3-0 win over Blackpool at Ewood Park.

But despite the scoreline, Williams acknowledged it wasn’t a straightforward three points.

He added: “It wasn’t comfortable. It was a tough game especially first-half, they came out and made it difficult as we knew they would.

“But we defended well and I thought the top half of the pitch were quality, Dacky, Arma (Adam Armstrong) and DG (Danny Graham) were the difference really.

“I think the opening goal just put a downer on them.”