MIKE Watkinson has hailed Lancashire opener Paul Horton as a shining example to emerging players looking to nail down a first-team spot.

In his major breakthrough season, Horton is one of only three players to feature in all of Lancashire's opening six County Championship matches, along with captain Mark Chilton and wicket-keeper Luke Sutton.

And the 24-year-old, included in the Championship squad that faces Kent at Old Trafford today, looks set to stay in the Red Rose fold after an encouraging start to 2007.

Last month, he cracked his maiden first-class century of 139 against Worcestershire and is second only to experienced Stuart Law in Lancashire's average charts after compiling 421 runs at 46.77.

Horton played in only five Championship games in 2005, and just three last year, in a middle-order role.

But the improving right-hander has recently found his feet at the top of the innings and is now putting the pressure on more established names in the Old Trafford ranks.

Although one-day appearances remain limited for Horton, Lancashire cricket manager Watkinson is delighted to see the progress made by the Australian-born batsman.

"Paul Horton has not let us down in past seasons when a batting spot has been made available," said Watkinson "At the top of the order, he scored a good century for us.

"He's putting a strong message to the senior batsmen that he's trying to nail down a spot.

"We always try and make an opportunity for the younger players when the time is right. Paul is making the most of that opportunity."

While Horton is patiently establishing himself, Muttiah Muralitharan has produced a far more emphatic announcement in Lancashire colours this summer.

It has taken just three matches for Sri Lanka's spin wizard to head the Division One Championship bowling averages, having claimed 23 victims at an excellent 13.47 apiece.

"You sort of expect those figures from him," said Watinson.