THERE were mixed emotions at Ewood Park this week with the start of one promising relationship and the end of another. Terry Venables' Euro-axe landed on the unfortunate Rovers' midfielder, Jason Wilcox, while the board rubbed their hands at the launch of a new sponsorship deal with insurance giants CIS worth millions of pounds over the next four years.

But there was no consoling Wilcox who let his feelings known to the press while modelling Blackburn Rover's new kit for next season.

"I was very disappointed when Terry told me I hadn't made the European championship squad," said Wilcox, who had just flown back from England's Far East tour. "To get that far and play so well against Hungary and to just miss out - I'm going to go and have a good rest now and look forward to next season and Glen Hoddle."

The 24-year-old remains philosophical about his future but admits the last few months have been a real rollercoster ride.

"If anyone had said back in March I would be on the verge of an England place this summer I would have laughed. I was really pleased to have the opportunity and still want to play for England - perhaps I'll get the chance under Glen Hoddle."

Manager Ray Harford had little to say about Wilcox's exclusion.

"I was disappointed for the lad especially after him playing so well."

The arrival of CIS (Co-operative Insurance) at Rovers heralds the dawn of a new era for the former Premier League champions.

It is the biggest single sponsorship deal for the Manchester-based firm and secures more healthy corporate backing from one of the biggest in the business.

Chairman Robert Coar said: "CIS are ideal sponsors for Blackburn Rovers. It's a blue-chip company with a reputation for looking after its customers and giving good value for money - one of the major qualities we strive to offer."

Tim Flowers and Alan Shearer made the Euro squad.

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