SUPPORT for Wanderers' campaign to stay in the Premiership has come from the most unlikely of sources - rival manager Graeme Souness.

The Blackburn Rovers boss has thrown his weight behind the Bolton Evening News' 'Keep The Whites Up' drive ahead of the derby clash on Easter Monday at Ewood Park.

While Blackburn's place in the Premiership is secure and a place in Europe is well within reach after six wins in their last seven games, Wanderers' fight to play top flight football for another season is still in the air following defeat at Chelsea.

Souness' side battled with Wanderers to avoid the drop last season, while the two clubs were also fighting each other in the promotion race from the First Division in 2000-01.

But Souness believes the Whites have earned the right to stay in the Premiership - and their survival would benefit Blackburn too.

He said: "From my view, I think the more teams in this area who are in the Premiership, the greater interest all round. I really hope Bolton do stay up.

"It's also another derby game for the both of us, which creates interest for both clubs and maybe that's the biggest reason of all.

"But Sam is a pal of mine too. We have played against each other and have known each other for a long time. He has done a wonderful job there and deserves to stay up because of the hard work he has put in.

"I've seen Bolton a couple of times this season and have watched them on television as well.

"They had a slow start but are finishing strong now and playing good attractive football. Saturday will be their cup final and I really think Bolton will beat West Ham at the Reebok.

"One thing's for sure, I'm hoping they will be safe for Monday!"

But as Bolton fans will know, the 17-point difference between the sides will not make Graeme Souness want to claim three points any less.