“It’s a tough time” – Super Eagles defender calls for support amidst Blackburn’s relegation battle

Super Eagles and Blackburn Rovers right-back Ryan Alebiosu has called for support from the club’s fans as they look to wriggle their way out of a relegation battle, Afrik Foot reports.

The 24-year-old was a part of Nigeria’s AFCON 2025 squad, making his debut in their 3-1 win against Uganda in their final group game.

That was his only involvement in Morocco as he suffered a deep leg cut after the game.

Upon his return to Blackburn, the Rovers were languishing in the relegation places but a six-point deduction from Leicester City saw them go just three points above the Foxes.

Alebiosu calls for Blackburn Rovers support

The former Arsenal man has played five games since he returned from Morocco, and only two of those have ended in victories.

With twelve games remaining until the end the season, Alebiosu is hoping Michael O’Neill’s side can muster up some wins so as to remain in the Championship.

“I remember before we had another tough run, then we had a little spell, a run of games, and it felt different,” the ex-St Mirren full-back said in quotes revealed by ESPN.

“Everyone wanted that same feeling. So I feel like that first win is something the group needs again, and then from there, we can kick on, keep going.

“The Lancashire derby against Preston North End is a very big part, you know, just to get our first win done at Ewood Park. It’ll bring more of the fans together, more of everything together.

“Fans roaring on your side, fans building that pressure, building that excitement, it brings a lot of energy to the team.

“Team bonding is key. I feel like the lads are strong in terms of connection.

“It’s just, obviously, right now, it’s a tough time, but the lads are still there. We’re all still together, and that’s what’s gonna get us through this.

“The season’s a full season, it’s not split. So, for me to finish off this second half of the season on a high is what I need to strive for.

“I know the team needs to get out of this relegation battle and see how far we can get to. So it’s something that, not just me, but the whole team want to achieve,” Alebiosu concluded.

Blackburn Rovers have accrued 35 points from 32 league games. Only West Bromwich Albion (34), Portsmouth (33), Leicester City (32), Oxford United (28), and Sheffield Wednesday (-7), have amassed less in that time.