PAUL Ince insists today’s opponents Everton are the “yardstick” for his Blackburn Rovers side as he gears up for his Premier League managerial debut.

The Rovers manager admits he is “nervous and excited” at the prospect of dictating his Rovers charges at Goodison Park this afternoon.

But while he prepares to go toe to toe with David Moyes from the touchline, Ince says he has nothing but respect for his Toffees counterpart for his achievements with the Blues over the last six years.

Under the Scotsman’s stewardship, Everton broke the monopoly of the Premier League’s top four in the 2004/05 campaign, and last term finished fifth to book a comfortable UEFA Cup spot.

Ince concedes that Rovers don’t have the financial clout to dislodge the likes of Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool at the top of the league, but he believes there is every chance of mirroring Everton’s relative success.

“Everton have got to be our yardstick,” said the Rovers boss. “They have been pushing fourth for the last couple of years and that’s something we can look to in the future.

“They finished fifth last season and have qualified for Europe over the last few years. They are a good side.”

Ince added: “I don’t think we could ever dislodge the top four. We would have to spend a lot of money to do that.

“Our situation is one of consolidation. We are in a transitional period and it’s going to take time for the players to gel into the way we want to play.

“They have got to get used to the staff and we have got to get used to them. It’s not going to happen overnight.

“But by the same token, we want to perform and get as many points as we possibly can.”

And Ince is hopeful of getting his first few points on the board in Merseyside today - although he knows it will prove a battle.

He said: “It’s going to be very tough at Goodison. The most important thing is that we get something from the game, that will set us up nicely for Hull next Saturday.

“I’m excited about walking out of the tunnel five minutes before kick-off.

“Of course, there will be a few nerves, but it’ll be exciting and I’m looking forward to a good performance from the lads.”