Lost in France

Willy MacKay, the player's agent, today said the Cameroon international had 'disappeared' in protest at being refused a move to Rovers.

And he claims the 22-year-old defender may never play for St Etienne again unless he is granted his wish of a switch to Ewood Park.

"The boy has disappeared," said MacKay.

"They promised him if a club came in with money for him then it would be his choice where he went.

"But he feels St Etienne are trying to be too greedy and stop him from moving where he wants.

"He went there for nothing and he thinks that 50 million francs is a lot of money.

"They think he's going to Blackburn so he can move on the cheap to somewhere like Manchester United or Chelsea in a year's time.

"But he just wants to play for Blackburn, he believes they will easily win the league this season, and he wants to play in the Premier League next year."

Rovers -- who insist they have not prompted Mettomo's action -- have tabled an official bid of 50 million francs for the player but have yet to receive an official answer on whether it has been accepted or not.

He has also attracted interest from other clubs in England and Italy but he has set his heart on a move to Ewood.

The player missed training with his club in France yesterday and was expected to be absent again today.