Kean Captures Murphy

Blackburn Rovers announced the signing of Fulham midfielder Danny Murphy on a 2 year deal subject to a medical on Monday.

The 35 year old’s current contract with Fulham expires 1^st July ending a 5 year stay in West London. Murphy has been a key component during his time at Craven Cottage, part of the team defeated by Atletico Madrid in the Europa League final and captaining the side since being given the armband in 2008 by Roy Hodgson.

Fulham manager Martin Jol had been keen for Murphy to sign a new deal to stay at Craven Cottage but his efforts have proved unsuccessful.

The signing of the ex-Liverpool, Charlton and Tottenham midfielder represents a significant coup for Blackburn manager Steve Kean, beating off competition from Premier League side QPR.

Throughout his career Danny Murphy has made over 500 league appearances capturing 1 FA Cup, 2 League Cups, 1UEFA Cup and 1 UEFA Super Cup, all with Liverpool, along the way.

Following backing from the Blackburn board Steve Kean is looking to add to his squad in search of bouncing back from relegation with promotion straight back to the Premier League. Despite relegation Kean is eager to retain his big players, although Yakubu, Paul Robinson and Michel Salgado are set to leave Ewood Park.

Newcastle’s Dan Gosling and Leon Best have both been linked with moves to Blackburn. The Toon pair could be lured to Blackburn by first team football, even if it does involve dropping down to the Championship.

Striker Best has reportedly been subject of a £2.5 million bid from Steve Kean but he is also being tracked by Norwich and newly promoted Southampton. Best faces stiff competition for a place at Newcastle with Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse and Shola Ameobi preferred by Alan Pardew. Gosling’s move to Ewood Park is likely to on a temporary basis as Pardew sees a future for the midfielder at (cough cough) St. James’ Park.

Sam Jewell

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