says Stubbs ALAN Stubbs today paid tribute to the fans who have welcomed him back into the Burnden fold.

The star defender was given a warm reception, which turned to rapturous applause when he lined up against QPR on Saturday - his first home appearance since being rested and transfer-listed at the height of the controversial Blackburn affair.

There were fears former captain Stubbs would be booed and barracked but eight minutes into the game, the first moves of an assured performance prompted loud chants of "Stubbsy for England!"

"They were magnificent," Stubbs said in appreciation. "Every time I did something well they chanted my name. I've said before that it was only ever the minority who were against me.

"That reception was brilliant."

Roy McFarland was delighted by the developments, which have taken the heat out of a difficult situation and marked the return of a talent valued at £4.5 million.

"Alan's response was excellent and the crowd's response was excellent," the manager said. "I like what's happened.

"It's taken a little while to get his head screwed on - and that's not a criticism of him. He realises now that the things he's said and got involved with have not helped him."

**Wanderers take on Chester City at the Deva Stadium tonight in the 1st Qualifying Round of the FA Youth Cup.

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