CHARLIE Mulgrew believes Darragh Lenihan has found his home in the centre of Blackburn Rovers’ defence and backed the Irishman to succeed at the highest level.

Rovers have used 11 different central defensive partnerships so far this season, with Mulgrew and Lenihan the most popular since their first appearance together the 3-2 win over Brentford on November 19.

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And the Scotland international has been impressed with the development of Lenihan who has made 39 appearances this season.

The majority of those have come in central defence, with the 23-year-old having also featured in the middle of midfield during his early days at Rovers.

But Mulgrew is in no doubt where the former Burton loanee’s future lies.

“Darragh is a good player and centre back for me is probably his best position,” the 31-year-old said.

“He’s a real competitor and a player that you like to have in your team.

“To have him alongside me is great, he’s a good player, and very determined and has all the attributes to be a really good centre half.”

Mulgrew is back at Rovers after a week away with Scotland, playing 90 minutes in both the friendly draw with Canada and Sunday’s World Cup qualifying win over Slovenia.

Rovers have a near fully-fit squad going in to the final eight games of the season, and will be hoping the influential Mulgrew is over the worst of his injuries problems.

The former Celtic man has played just 25 times for Rovers this season, but has been included in 14 of their last 17 starting line-ups.

“I think it’s healthy for every squad to have competition but right now, and for the past few weeks, there is a lot of competition for places,” Mulgrew added.

“Everyone is aware of that and it can only benefit the ones that are playing.

“Everyone trains every day and is working hard and you have to be on your toes and be aware that someone is wanting your place. Everyone is fighting and moving in the right direction.

“The manager has said there will be different games when people are needed and it’s a squad game and we’re all in this together.”

Mulgrew has been used in central defence in his five outings under head coach Tony Mowbray, but was deployed in central midfield by previous boss Owen Coyle.

Of a potential return to the middle of the park, he said: “It’s what benefits the team, not what where I want to play, and wherever the manager thinks I can help the team then that’s fine.

“I’m happy and enjoying my football.”

Rovers are unbeaten in their seven games under Mowbray, a record they will put on the line again when they travel to Brighton on Saturday.

Mulgrew has been an integral part of the way Rovers have played under their new head coach, and the Scotland international admits everyone is enjoying his approach.

“Everyone is enjoying the new manager’s ideas and the way he’s got us playing,” he said.

“He’s not been here long but he’s got his ideas across quickly and we’ve picked up a few good results, and some decent performances.

“So it’s onwards and upwards hopefully.”