BLACKBURN Rovers' Academy starlets must plot the downfall of Exeter City in the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup tonight without the help of star defender Jay McEveley.

Academy coaches Bobby Downes and Rob Kelly have become victims of their success after McEveley's promotion to the first team squad has cost him his place against City.

But Downes spoke for everyone at Brockhall by insisting he wouldn't have it any other way.

"We are in the business to produce players for the first team and we are all delighted that Jay has made the step up so I wouldn't even dream of asking for him back," said Downes.

Rovers boast an impressive record in the FA Youth Cup having reached the final on two occasions in the last five years.

They will go into tonight's tie at Ewood as clear favourites.

Rovers have fitness worries surrounding Jerome Watt and Paul Gallagher.

Tonight's game kicks off at 7pm.