ROVERS boss Tony Mowbray has challenged midfielder Richie Smallwood to earn himself another new contract in 12 months time.

The 27-year-old penned a two-year deal last week to keep him at Ewood Park until 2020.

Smallwood, who started every league game for Rovers last season, had a year to run on the contract he signed when he joined from Rotherham last summer.

He has become a fans' favourite in East Lancashire and became the third contracted player to sign an extended deal in the last few weeks, following in the footsteps of Darragh Lenihan and Derrick Williams.

Mowbray said Smallwood's new deal was just reward for his performances last year but he now wants the former Middlesbrough youngster to kick on again in the second tier.

"I felt he needed rewarding with a new deal, as we have done with a few other players," said Mowbray.

"He came from Rotherham on a free transfer and I'm just trying to align him with other players really.

"I thought he had a good season. It's a big test for Richie again this season, to play at what we hope will be the top half of the Championship.

"He's got to step up to the mark and let's hope he gets another contract in 12 months time."