Blackburn Rovers defender Martin Olsson has signed a new five-year contract at Ewood Park.

The 22-year-old Sweden international has been rewarded with a new long-term deal after making 27 first-team appearances last season.

He has followed fellow rising defensive star Phil Jones in committing his future to the club in recent weeks.

"Signing a new contract is easy for me after the enjoyment of last season," the defender-turned-winger told the club's official website.

"I gained a lot of confidence, through both the management and my team-mates, and I thought I improved game by game.

"I got my chance and I felt I took it and it doesn't matter to me whether I am seen as a left winger or left back, as long as I am playing and contributing then I am happy.

"But I must say that I have enjoyed the forward role and the chance to get among the goals.

"I have relaxed more and I am already looking forward to next season for I feel I can get better."Subscribe to Football FanCast News Headlines by Email