CHRIS Samba believes Junior Hoilett could be a major player in Blackburn Rovers’ future after hailing the Canadian’s Premier League impact.

The 20-year-old has finally made his big breakthrough this season, after a frustrating first senior campaign last time round, and Samba believes it is a sign of things to come.

The flying winger has been the talk of the league over the past couple of months after making the most of an extended run in the side with a string of impressive displays.

Neither player nor the club appear in a rush to enter talks about a new contract but, with his deal expiring in the summer of 2012, Rovers fans are calling for a new deal to be struck soon.

When asked whether Rovers should tie Hoilett up on an extended deal, Samba said: “Hopefully. Junior is an important player and you hope he chooses to commit to the club because he has been with us for so long.

“It is better to have Junior on your team in training than not because he is a pain, a real pain. You would definitely prefer him to be on your team than against you.

“It would be great if he does stay here for a long time because he could maybe be a big part of the team.”