Lewis Travis says a new deal at Rovers is perfectly timed as the delighted midfielder said: “this is the football club that I want to play for.”

The 21-year-old has become a key figure of Tony Mowbray’s squad and started 19 Championship matches last season and has been rewarded for his progress with a new and improved long-term deal.

Travis, who joined Rovers from Liverpool in 2014, last signed a deal in February 2018 and was previously under contract until the summer of 2021.

The new deal has seen that extended until 2023 at a time when he is only enhancing his reputation with his all-action displays on the pitch.

Travis featured in 31 games in all in 2018/19 and has made 41 appearances since making his debut in August 2017.

“It means the world to me to commit long-term to Rovers. This is the football club that I want to play for so to sign a deal is great for both me and my family,” he said.

“I wanted everything sorted before the start of the season to allow me to focus fully on my football.

“It’s a great feeling to sign the new contract with Rovers.”

Travis had looked set to leave on loan in a bid to further his career, but he became a fixture in the side in the second half of the campaign, scoring his first goal in the penultimate game against Norwich.

He also scored Rovers’ equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Rangers on Sunday and he has played in all the pre-season matches so far.

“Everybody in their footballing career will get their chance, but it’s down to whether you take it or not,” he added.

“The gaffer and the coaching staff have helped me massively.

“Last season was massive for me. I think the biggest step up in football is going from the Under-23s and into the first team, mainly because it’s so cut-throat.

“When I reflected on my season I was pretty happy with myself. It has been a great year for me.”

Released by Liverpool in December 2014, Travis was quickly snapped up by Rovers and has progressed through the age groups. Initially a right back, he impressed for the Under-23s in central midfield before getting his chance in the senior side.

“When I came in at 16 or 17, there were a few ups and downs,” he admitted.

“But the club have welcomed me, brought me through and have given me a pathway to the first team, much like a few other lads.

“When you get let go from a club you normally go for many trials, but you listen to the advice from others.

“A close friend of mine told me to go to Rovers for a trial and I haven’t looked back since really. It’s proved to be a great decision for me to join a great club.”