CHRIS Samba admits last campaign was the hardest season he has had at Blackburn Rovers as speculation mounts over his Ewood Park future.

The Rovers skipper admitted last month he was not sure whether he would move on this summer with a number of top clubs rumoured to be interested in him, with Samba looking for the chance to win silverware.

The Lancashire Telegraph can reveal Rovers have had no approach for Samba since the end of the season and both the club and the player expect him to report back for pre-season at Brockhall.

Should Samba get offered the chance of Champions League football next season it would be hard for Rovers to keep him, but the club remain confident he will remain in East Lancashire.

Samba said: “Hopefully it is a big summer for the club.

"My only concern at the moment is to go on holiday. I am not going to worry about next year now.

“My mind is set on relaxing at the moment because, for me, that is the hardest season I have had at Blackburn Rovers. It has been very hard mentally.

“Someone asked me what is harder, Playing for the title or playing to avoid relegation on the last day. That is harder.

"You are so drained, so credit to the players and everyone.

"We did it and I feel very proud about that.

“A lot of things have changed and it has been a very hard time. That was the first time I have gone 12 games without a win, a lot of things have gone on.

“I am very happy now though. Let us see who we sign. Now we can improve the squad. That is up to the owners, we have no powers.”

Samba was a key figure in helping Rovers retain their Premier League status last season, with a series of big performances towards the end of the campaign.

A stunning final day 3-2 win at Molineux confirmed their safety after a season that saw a change in ownership, a new manager and turbulent times behind the scenes.

“It was a good feeling,” said Samba. “We never gave up. There was stomach pain and all those strange feelings you get with nerves before the game.

“We wanted one thing on the pitch and that was to be sure we finished the season with a happy ending. We were superb.

"We took our destiny into our own hands and that was the most important thing. That is very encouraging for next year.

“It was very, very important. Blackburn Rovers have been in the Premier League for so many years, and there has been a lot of work been put in not just by us but by people before us and we will make sure the future continues that way in the top flight.

“The club is a top-flight club and nothing else. That is very important and it is very good for the fan.

"I hope we can give them some exciting games at Ewood Park next season and improve.”