15-05-2025
Ex-Ewood hero David Dunn on son Isaac's impressive season at Rovers
David Dunn says his son Isaac has had a 'great season' in Rovers' Academy but insists he the youngster must stay grounded through the 'ups and downs' of football.
Isaac made his debut for the Under-21 side earlier this season at just 16 years of age and has since been named on the bench for the first team on a handful of occasions.
'He is still only 16, he's a young boy. But for a first-year scholar going into full-time football, I'd say he has had a great season,' his dad told The Football Faithful.
'He is a very technical player but, again, he's still got loads of growth yet. I am looking forward to watching him progress and see where it takes him because we all know that football is a really tough sport.
'There are going to be ups and downs, that is for sure. It is just about how he manages the negatives and hopefully he can have much more positives.'
David is happy to leave the football side to Isaac's coaches at Rovers but is keen to pass on his experience off the pitch.
'I just think it's important for me to mentor him off the pitch. Hopefully, I can show him what I did wrong,' he joked.
'You have to be so dedicated now in football and live your life like an elite athlete should. Football will take care of itself.
'You have got to trust the managers and the coaches that they will look after him. You just have to support him and give good advice off the pitch.'
Dunn had a spell as a coach at Rovers (Image: PA) Dunn previously coached in Rovers' Academy and was assistant manager of the Under-21 side at one stage, helping win the Premier League 2 Division Two title. He also had a spell working under Tony Mowbray with the first team squad.
'The best job I have ever had on this side of the fence was coaching at Blackburn U21s. It was a brilliant role," he reflected.
'I got so much enjoyment out of it. It is my club where I've been brought through, and watching players develop and take a similar path was extremely rewarding.'
The Academy success has continued this season, with several youngsters making their senior debuts.
Elsewhere, Adam Wharton could be involved in the FA Cup final this weekend they Crystal Palace take on Manchester City at Wembley.
'I like it when local players are given the opportunity when they come through the ranks,' Dunn added.
'I believe Blackburn have 700 consecutive appearances for having a graduate in the side and I think I was the first of those games. You see lads that have been at the club since eight or nine in the first team, which is brilliant.
'One great thing about the club is that they have always produced players, so hopefully that can continue for many years to come.'
