LEE Carsley has given Blackburn Rovers a new season boost after deciding to stay at Ewood Park.

The midfielder made his U-turn 24 hours before today's opener against Crystal Palace at Ewood Park.

Rovers chief executive John Williams said: "He went to see Graeme yesterday and said he wanted to stay.

"Graeme and everyone connected with the club is delighted by that news

"It is a great boost for us at this point in the season."

Carsley stunned Rovers this summer during their pre-season of Germany by stating he wanted to leave Ewood and get back in the Premier League.

He has since be linked with Coventry but nothing concrete came of that.

Carsley is currently serving a three-match ban after getting sent off against Palace last season.

The £3.35m signing from Derby County joined Blackburn Rovers 18 months ago and was a key member of the squad last season.