Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce believes he has laid the foundations for the club's future success by giving youth a chance.

Four players aged 22 or under were in the starting line-up which lost 2-1 at Liverpool on Sunday with another on the substitutes' bench.

That game was overshadowed by the ongoing row between Allardyce and Reds manager Rafael Benitez, who ridiculed his opponent's tactics.

However, the Rovers boss feels the bigger picture has been overlooked in the post-match furore.

"I am excited. I think the rapid growth of the youngsters has been a real bonus and a real pleasure for me," he said.

"Players who were already here like Junior Hoilett and Martin Olsson have started to emerge as regular first team players in their early 20s.

"Also the new players we have brought in and wanted to develop, perhaps not for this season, have been outstanding.

"Steven Nzonzi and Nikola Kalinic are playing far more of a role than we believed they would at this point.

"That stands us in real good stead."

Allardyce believes he has struck a good balance in his squad which will benefit Blackburn in the seasons to come.

"That mixture of youth and experience is very important," he told the Lancashire Telegraph.

"The young ones have the high energy and give you legs and enthusiasm and the older more experienced players are your calmer head and ability.

"It is a nice-looking blend and hopefully that can grow over the years."