Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce last night warned Benni McCarthy that he will not be bullied into selling the AWOL striker to West Ham United.

Rovers have confirmed that McCarthy has failed to turn up for the club’s last two training sessions as the 32-year-old steps up his bid to force an Ewood exit before the end of the January transfer window.

McCarthy has made it clear for some time that he is keen to leave Rovers in search of a regular starting spot elsewhere to strengthen his claims for a place in South Africa’s team at this summer’s World Cup.

West Ham have submitted a written offer but it is understood that the two clubs were yesterday still some way away from agreeing a fee, with the Hammers falling short of Rovers’ asking price of around £3m.

And Allardyce last night slammed McCarthy’s actions, reminding the forward that he will not be sold unless a suitable offer is tabled before the transfer window shuts on Monday at 5pm.

“We are very disappointing with Benni’s non-appearance for training and will deal with it separately should he remain here after the transfer window has closed,” said the Rovers boss.

“We have said all along that we will listen to offers, but only agree to sell if both the commercial and football reasons satisfy Blackburn Rovers.

“That situation remains unchanged.”

Reports have suggested that McCarthy, who has also been linked with Turkish giants Galatasaray, has his heart set on a switch to Upton Park and has no intention of returning to training or playing for Rovers again.

The former Porto forward came off the bench in last week’s Carling Cup semi final defeat at Aston Villa but has started only 10 games this season, finding the net just three times during the campaign.

His only league goal came at Wigan Athletic on Boxing Day but he now looks highly unlikely to figure in tomorrow night’s match at home to the same opposition.

Rovers, though, stood firm when Roque Santa Cruz declared his intention to leave last January and, with the club still not out of relegation danger, they are keen not to bow to McCarthy’s wishes unless they can find a suitable replacement within the next seven days.

Rovers travel to West Ham for a crucial Premier League fixture on Saturday - two days before the end of the transfer window - and that could also play a part in the speed of any negotiations.