But Kean believes yesterday's win over Arsenal in the Barclays Premier League will have eased the concerns of many, and he remains confident Blackburn have a bright future under Indian owners Venky's.

He praised the owners for their "fantastic backing" and expressed delight they were present for Blackburn's 4-3 success over Arsene Wenger's team at Ewood Park.

Kean came under fire during a pre-match protest, when marching fans turned out to show their opposition to him remaining in charge.

But he had already acted by holding talks with one of the protest organisers, which Kean described as "open and frank", and now he says anyone is welcome to approach him.

"I'm happy to meet any supporter and to be open about what we are trying to do at the club," Kean said. "But the thing that disappoints me (about the criticism) is that we've been playing well.

"It's been disappointing to get a bit of stick but you take it on the chin."

Kean told Sky Sports News he was not fearing his future at Blackburn was dependent on the outcome of the clash with Arsenal.

"I didn't think that at all. I've had fantastic backing from the owners, who were there yesterday to see the game," he said.

"I'm happy they were there because they can see what we're doing. When you can feel the vibe and feel everyone pulling for each other, I'm delighted.

"I don't feel as though I'm under pressure, not when you have the backing of the dressing room, the backing of the owners and I think we've turned a few of the 500 or 600 (protesters) and sent them home happy."

Kean is certain the owners are committed to developing Blackburn year by year, rather than demanding drastic improvements overnight.

"They're not just here for a couple of years. They're here for the long haul, they've got a feel for this club," he said.

"I've been on record saying we want European football, but that's not this year. It's a four-year programme.

"On deadline day we were one of the clubs that were spending. Any time I've ever asked the owners to produce the cash to get someone I want they have always done it."