Blackburn Rovers boss Steve Kean won't hear of criticism for midfielder Steven N'Zonzi.

Rovers' 23-year-old Frenchman was axed from Steve Kean's line-up for the first time this season, for the 2-0 win over Norwich, after taking flak from some quarters for several below par performances.

Kean said: "In some quarters there has been some sort of criticism for Steve, which I think is really, really harsh. With the exception of him being injured for two games or ill, he has played every single game.

"We feel as though he is an improving player. The level he is at now, from where he was when he came to the club is nothing short of sensational.

"It is no surprise he is linked with massive clubs all over the world because we feel as though he has been top notch."