BLACKBURN'S midfield maestro Tugay has expressed his delight at signing a new one-year deal that will keep him at Ewood Park for another season.

The 37-year-old Turkish star, who will be the oldest outfield player in the Premier League next season, signed an appearance-related deal last night, which also includes a coaching brief, despite interest from other clubs.

Tugay, who made 27 appearances for Mark Hughes' side last term, scoring two goals, has always expressed his desire to stay at Ewood and the veteran star was a happy man to finally have his future sorted out.

Speaking exclusively to the Lancashire Telegraph, he said: "I hope to help the first team as much as possible next season and I still believe I have plenty to offer at Premier League level.

"Football has given me so much in my life and I would like to help the young players at Blackburn to build their careers and break into the first team squad.

"I have always said that I love this football club and I have a special relationship with the fans.

"I have had seven great years here and, hopefully, there's more great times to come."

Tugay's agent, Simon Munir, added: "Tugay had offers from other clubs but as he has always said his heart is very much with Blackburn Rovers, so once they made him an offer, he was delighted to accept it."