DEFENDER Simon Grayson today admitted he fears the worst over his Ewood future following the arrival of John Curtis.

The 30-year-old defender, who joined Rovers from Aston Villa last summer, has been the subject of intense speculation ever since the season finished.

And he is now facing up to the possibility of having to find another club.

"Obviously, John's arrival casts a major shadow over my career now," said Grayson.

"You don't bring a new player in not to play him.

"And with him being the manager's first signing, you've got to expect him to play.

"I had been told by the club that I am not on the list. Now they have signed another right back, however, that situation may have changed.

"But, to be honest, I could see the writing on the wall towards the end of the season.

"Before Graeme came in I had played about 30 games.

"Once he arrived, though, I think I only started two of the last nine or 10 games so it looks as if I don't figure in his plans.

"But we will have to wait and see what happens."

Grayson will not seek further talks on his future, for the time being at least.

But he has admitted that he is at the stage in his career where he needs to be guaranteed first team football.

"I do like it at Blackburn and I'm really settled here," said Grayson.

"But it's part and parcel of the game that new managers come in and feel they need to change things around and they are bound to have different opinions on different players.

"I'm 30 now, though, and I cannot afford to be playing in the reserves.

"So if that's the case next season then something may need to be done.

"But if I haven't heard anything from the club, then I will report back for pre-season training as normal and try and fight for my place."