Rovers star talks fail

Blackburn Rovers have reportedly admitted defeat in their attempts to keep Junior Hoilett at the club.

The Canadian international's contract expires in the summer and a number of clubs have been linked with a free transfer swoop. Rovers' relegation to the Championship merely exacerbated those reports, with Tottenham, Arsenal and Bayern Munich among those rumoured to be interested. Blackburn boss Steve Kean remained bullish about the club's chances of keeping the winger, who scored seven goals in 37 appearances this season, despite their demotion. The Scot held talks with the 21-year-old over the weekend in a last-ditch attempt to persuade him to stay. However, those efforts appear to have failed, with a source close to the youngster telling the Lancashire Telegraph: "There is no chance that Junior can now stay at Blackburn Rovers. "He has loved his time at the club but he wants to be playing at the highest level possible. "He will look at all his options. The staff and the players know he is leaving and wish him the best."