TIM Flowers has agreed a new five-year contract with Blackburn Rovers who are also hoping to persuade young Shay Given to commit himself to Ewood on a long-term basis.

England keeper Flowers has seen David Seaman establish himself as number one on the international scene during Euro 96.

But the club are delighted that he has confirmed his contentment at Ewood by accepting new terms.

Rovers are continually working behind the scenes to try to ensure they have their squad safely under contract - a must following the Bosman verdict.

Flowers follows both Jason Wilcox and Colin Hendry this summer in signing on until the next century.

"Circumstances are changing all the time with players and we have to adapt to that," said Ewood chairman Robert Coar.

"Jason's situation, for example, has changed as he broke into the England squad and won his first cap at the end of the season.

"Tim has long been a regular member of the international squad and we are pleased we have been able to agree a new deal with him."

Rovers would now like to do the same with 20-year-old Given.

Sunderland were ready to pay a seven-figure fee for the young Irishman but finally seem to have accepted he is not for sale.

They turned their attentions to Tony Coton instead and were hoping to sign him from Manchester United, despite rivalry from Wolves, before the weekend.

Given has been elevated to number two at Ewood, following the departure of Bobby Mimms.

He is still really learning the game and gaining experience, even though he has already made his senior international bow for the Republic of Ireland.

But many good judges feel Given will provide genuine competition for the number one spot at Ewood. Meanwhile, Manchester United striker Andy Cole has confirmed what everyone else - except certain national newspapers - already believed. He won't be coming to Ewood.

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