Kristi Montgomery has become the undisputed first choice in Blackburn Rovers' midfield, with manager Tony Mowbray drawing a direct comparison between the 22-year-old and Manchester City's highly-rated Elliot Anderson. The summer signing's rapid rise has been rewarded with a first senior Scotland call-up.
Montgomery has started all eight of Blackburn's league games this season, surpassing his total number of starts from the entirety of the previous campaign. His consistent presence has been a bright spot in a mixed start that sees Rovers sitting 16th in the table with nine points from those eight matches. The team's form reads one win, two draws and two defeats from their last five outings.
Mowbray's faith rewarded
He also expressed surprise that Montgomery's strike in the 3-1 win over Millwall was his first professional goal.
The comparison to Manchester City's Anderson, a player once valued at around £116 million, shows the high ceiling Mowbray believes Montgomery possesses. The manager pointed to his athleticism, simple and effective passing, mobility, and innate understanding of the game as qualities that make him stand out. Montgomery's style is defined by playing on the front foot, anticipating play on the edge of the opposition box, and relentless counter-pressing.
Vital experience around him
His development is being aided by the seasoned professionals around him, with the experience of Adam Forshaw and Sam Morsy in the squad providing vital guidance. This blend of youth and know-how is seen as key for Blackburn's midfield balance as they look to climb the standings. Montgomery's new long-term contract, signed just a couple of weeks ago, secures his future at Ewood Park and reflects the club's commitment to building around his potential.
Blackburn's recent results have been inconsistent, with a 2-2 draw at Portsmouth preceding that victory over Millwall. In that Portsmouth match, goals from Oladapo Afolayan and Ryoya Morishita earned a point, with Afolayan now the team's top scorer this season with three goals. The squad will be looking to build momentum when they host Cardiff City, who are 21st, in their next Championship fixture on 10 October. Fans can check the full schedule on the club's fixtures page.
Mowbray describes Montgomery as a "nice kid" with clear ambition, suggesting his first Scotland call-up is just the beginning. With his place secure and his confidence growing, the midfielder's continued progress will be central to Blackburn Rovers' hopes for the season ahead.
Further reading: Lancashire Telegraph
