ROVERS youngster Lewis Travis has signed a new one-year contract with the club.

The 19-year-old. who can play anywhere across the back four as well as in midfield. was on the bench three times for Rovers last season having become a key player in the Under-23 squad.

And Travis, who moved to Ewood Park from Liverpool in 2014, admits he is now keen to force his way into the first team picture when Tony Mowbray's squad return to pre-season training later this month.

He said: “Last year was great. I really enjoyed the experiences of being on the bench and being involved with the first team – it was amazing.

"All of the lads were great with me, so hopefully next year I can make that next step up and get a couple of appearances under my belt.

“It’s the final step really, to get into the team. It’s also probably the hardest step, to earn a position and cement your place in the team.

"So I’m going to work hard over pre-season, get myself as fit as possible, try and get some good games in with the first team and then hopefully when the season starts I’ll be there or thereabouts.”

And with Ryan Nyambe becoming a first team regular last season having made the step up from the Academy, as well as Willem Tomlinson and Scott Wharton make first team appearances, Travis sees no reason why he can't follow in the full-back's footsteps.

He added: “To see the lads go on and make the step up shows that it’s possible and obviously the manager is prepared to give young players a chance, which is good for me.”

Travis signed a one-year professional deal in 2016 and said he was excited to extend his Rovers stay.

He added: “I’m delighted. It’s what I’ve worked for since I was a young boy. I’ve worked hard all season and I’ve now been rewarded with the contract, so I’m very pleased.”