Blackburn midfielder Morten Gamst Pedersen has agreed a new four-year contract to stay at Ewood Park.

The Norwegian international could have left on a free transfer at the end of the season with a number of clubs across Europe expressing an interest.

But Pedersen, 28, said: “Blackburn always was my first choice. We have a united team, great management and brilliant supporters,” he said.

“Also, there aren’t many footballers who get the opportunity to stay with one Premier League club for 10 years. I did and I want to honour that.”

Morten Gamst Pedersen

Manager Sam Allardyce admitted at the end of the season he did not know whether Pedersen, originally signed by Graeme Souness in August 2004 from Tromso for £1.5million, would agree a new contract or not.

However, now the deal has been done the Rovers boss is delighted to have secured the services of the 28-year-old.

“Pedersen is one of our most dedicated and professional players,” he said.

“We’re glad to finally have a contract in place and look forward to the new season.”

Chairman John Williams completed the formalities of the deal with Pedersen and afterwards revealed his delight.