Blackburn Rovers defender Christopher Samba has committed his long term future to the club by signing a new contract that will keep him at Ewood Park until at least 2014.

The towering centre-back has become an integral part of Sam Allardyce's team in the last couple of seasons, and has even filled in as an emergency striker on several occasions.

Rovers chairman John Williams believes Samba is fully deserving of his new contract, stating the Congo international's consistent performances and willingness to change roles from time-to-time show his dedication to the cause..

He told the club's official website: "I am delighted that we have been able to secure Chris on a new long-term deal, which is an important deal for the club.

"It has been richly deserved through his performances over the past few seasons, particularly during the last campaign when he demonstrated a tremendous attitude when playing in an unfamiliar role as a striker."

The 25-year-old joined Blackburn from Bundesliga outfit Hertha Berlin for £400,000 in January 2007, and has already made over 100 appearances for the club.