BRFC Articles

Rover the moon

Your switch to Blackburn came as a shock then, Christian?

"Yeah, I was gobsmacked when Derby accepted the offer. When I came here to look around after the clubs had agreed a fee I did it with an open mind because I was geared up for a season with Derby and was very happy there. But, after I spoke to the manager, Roy Hodgson, and saw the facilities it was an easy decision. To be honest though it was quite a shock to find out I could be on the move in the first place."

Was it really hard to leave Derby?

"In a lot of ways I was sad to go. Realistically Derby didn't want to sell me and the manager said they would only let me go if someone put the sort of money up that Rovers did. I don't think Jim Smith really wanted to let me go. But the money Blackburn offered was a huge amount and I don't think Derby could afford not to take it."

Did your �5.35 million price tag surprise you?

"It was a shock. It's a huge amount of money but it doesn't really have anything to do with me, it's just the only figure Derby would accept. People will say there is a �5million defender who's just stuck in an og or something like that but what can I do? I didn't put the price tag on my head but it was great boost that Blackburn were willing to pay so much."

Did European football swing your decision to join Rovers?

"Not really. I signed a long-term contract because I want to be involved in what looks like a bright future for this club. To be playing in Europe was just a bonus for me, really."

Does following in Colin Hendry's footsteps at Rovers bother you?

"It's not something that worries me too much. I am my own player. I'm just going to go about my job as I did when I was at Dundee United and Derby. I'm not going to try and be Colin Hendry. The manager has bought me because he sees things in me that over the next six years will help Rovers, not because I play like Colin."

What is your favourite position, Christian?

"Obviously playing at the back is my favourite position but I can operate in midfield or even in attack and that is an added bonus. I've got an all round type of game that allows me to fit anywhere, really. That could help if injuries and suspensions crop up."

You played at wing-back in the world cup though, didn't you?

"It was quite an experience. I suppose in a way I'm still doing my apprenticeship with the Scotland team and over the years it has been shown that youngsters who come into the national squad do tend to play out of position a bit. But I am hoping that eventually I will fit in as a centre-half in the side."

Are you enjoying working with the manager, Roy Hodgson?

"He is a brilliant manager and has been at top clubs in the past. I think he is also an excellent coach and that can only be good for me and the future of Blackburn. Now I've been here a few months I have also had the chance to look round and it is a fantastic set-up at this club as well."

Do you think Kevin Davies' �7million fee is affecting him?

"Strikers are under huge pressure but Kevin Davies is an excellent player and it will come good for him. I came here because the manager is looking to build a side that will be right at the top and sometimes you have to pay over the odds if you get the players in you want. He's ill at the moment, but I'm sure Kevin will show everyone what he can do soon."