Blackburn skipper Samba hands in transfer request

Blackburn captain Christopher Samba has handed in a transfer request as he bids to engineer a move away from Ewood Park this month.

The commanding centre-back is the subject of much interest, with QPR, Tottenham and Paris St Germain chasing his signature.

Samba admitted last week he was ready to leave Rovers for an 'ambitious club' and missed the win over Fulham on Saturday after complaining of a stomach upset.

Blackburn boss Steve Kean insisted after the game that Samba would be not sold and said he expected the 27-year-old to be available for selection this weekend.

However, the Congo international has now slapped in a transfer request in an attempt to force his departure from the club.

"I have today officially requested a transfer from Blackburn Rovers Football Club," he said. "I have personally informed the owners, manager and executives at the club that I want to leave in this transfer window.

"In my five years at Blackburn Rovers Football Club I have always given 100 per cent in every game I have played. I have had several opportunities to leave but I have always stayed.

"I have decided now is the right time for me to pursue a new challenge and I have asked the club to respect my decision and allow me to leave. I thank the fans for their support and I hope they feel I have served them and their club well."