PROLIFIC striker Jordan Rhodes has handed Blackburn Rovers a massive boost ahead of the start of the new season by signing a new contract tying him to the club until 2019.

Rhodes last night put pen to paper on a two-year extension to his existing deal to the delight of Rovers supporters.

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The 24-year-old, who had three years remaining on his contract, has scored 53 goals in 96 appearances since making a club record £8m move from Huddersfield Town in August 2012.

Rhodes said: “I’m delighted, I’m very happy.

“It is a fantastic football club and I’m very lucky to be here.

“I enjoy coming in everyday and to have an extension of two more years on top of my current contract is a real bonus.

“I was delighted to sign it, it is a club I enjoy playing for.

“The fans have been great ever since I’ve come in the place and I’ve just thoroughly enjoyed it so I’m delighted to be here.”

Rhodes was named Rovers’ player of the year in his debut campaign at Ewood Park after netting 28 times.

He followed that up with a further 25 goals last season as Gary Bowyer’s new-look side finished two points outside of the play-offs.

And his manager is expecting his star man to go from strength to strength having had the chance to recharge his batteries.

Rovers boss Bowyer said: “I’m really excited for Jordan Rhodes.

“He’s had a good break this summer, something he didn’t have last summer as he was away with Scotland until the first week in June.

“We will certainly reap the benefits of that.”

Talks with Rovers’ two out-of-contract players, left-back Markus Olsson and midfielder David Dunn, remain ongoing.

But it is understood that fans’ favourite Dunn is edging closer to signing a new deal.

One player on his way out of Rovers is versatile midfielder Josh Morris after he re-signed for Fleetwood Town on loan.

Morris, who can also play left back, will remain with the League One new boys until January 3.

The 22-year-old spent the final three months of last season on loan at Fleetwood, helping them win promotion with a play-off final win at Wembley.

Morris, who signed a new contract with Rovers last season, scored two goals in 17 games for the Cod Army and was named the League Two player of the month for April.

Fleetwood boss Graham Alexander said: “Josh made a great impression on everybody last season.

“He is very popular with all the players, he is a good footballer, a fit lad and he is motivated.”