Ipswich v Blackburn: Jason Scotland has become something of an unlikely Blues hero as he continued his good early-season form with a starring cameo against Blackburn Rovers.

As predicted by both manager and striker, Scotland was unable to start two matches in four days, dropping to the bench on Saturday after his fantastic performance in the Capital One Cup against Bristol Rovers.

But after replacing the ineffectual Jay Emmanuel-Thomas in the 66th minute, Scotland helped change the game – and not just with his deft touch to Luke Hyam’s dinked through-ball which Rovers full-back Ryan Lowe then deflected into his own net.

Delighted with how his big man helped rescue a point, Blues boss Paul Jewell said: “He’s got that touch of quality.

“He might not be able to finish too many 90-minute games, but he’s a great player to have coming off the bench because he makes us play a little bit.”

Jewell’s words were echoed by Lee Martin who believes Scotland has a big role to play this season, regardless of who the manager looks to bring in upfront.

Martin said: “He is a brilliant player. He probably hasn’t got two 90 minutes in a week but he can make an impact.

“He came on and made a difference and got an assist with the own goal. He is big and strong but also a clever footballer and we are going to need him this season, whether he starts or comes on.

“He has played at the top so there is no doubting his talent.”

Scotland might have to be content with another place on the bench at Watford tomorrow night with Martin back to his best in the advanced central role just playing behind Michael Chopra.