JACK Walker today blasted the latest bout of transfer speculation concerning Blackburn Rovers and declared: "There are no footballers for sale here."

In fact, Mr Walker is aiming for his club to strengthen the playing staff for a European push, rather than weaken it.

Alan Shearer was the main name at the centre of yesterday's speculation which Mr Walker described as "ill-informed rumour-mongering".

A Sunday newspaper claimed Glasgow Rangers were ready to launch a £12 million bid for the England and Ewood star.

They would be wasting their time.

Can anyone seriously imagine Shearer wanting to take what would virtually rank as a backward step into Scottish football? Even if Rovers wished to sell him - which they don't.

Newcastle were also mentioned again, a story that began months ago. Since a move to Tyneside first became the subject of speculation, Shearer has signed a new contract with Rovers which still has three and a half years to run.

Privately, Rovers are furious about the continuing reports.

With Shearer it started just months into his Ewood career. Since then, the likes of Lazio, Inter Milan, Newcastle and now Rangers have made the headlines.

But has anything ever happened? Nicky Marker was also said to be on offer for £250,000 and Mr Walker said he was "astounded" at such a story.

Rovers' owner stressed: "We are looking to strengthen the team and push for a European place.

"Our performances over the last seven League games have put us in the top two in the country on current form and getting into Europe is all that matters to us at the moment."

There could yet, however, be one exception to the "Not for Sale" notice at Ewood should David Batty decide to put in a written transfer request, or Rovers accept a bid from Newcastle.

North East sources believe Newcastle may try to step up their interest in Batty this week.

But Rovers are in a strong position. They do not need to sell and, as Mr Walker has stressed, they don't want to sell players.

It remains to be seen if the deadlock can be broken before Rovers return to action against Bolton on Saturday.

Aston Villa's FA Cup fourth round victory over Sheffield United at Bramall Lane yesterday means that Rovers will be without a game on Saturday, February 17 - fifth round day.

Alan Shearer represented Rovers at Sky TV's 1995 Champions of Sport awards in London last night.

He collected a trophy to mark the greatest sporting moment of 1995, when Rovers clinched the title at Anfield on a day of high drama.

They were also voted third in the team of the year section.

Rovers sold out their allocation of tickets for the game at Manchester United, with a number of fans braving the atrocious weather to queue overnight.

The club made special efforts for the concourses to be opened with TV and heating and also some catering available.

"It seemed to be appreciated by everyone," said a spokesman.

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