ROY Hodgson is continuing his Europe-wide search for new players this week, but Blackburn Rovers fans are going to have to be patient as the manager admitted he was looking for "a rare animal".

And, surprisingly, there has not been any movement so far for Blackburn Rovers' transfer-listed midfielder Lars Bohinen, which will mystify the Ewood boss who expected a lot of interest in the Norwegian.

Hodgson, taking advantage of Rovers' lack of action to maintain his scouting brief abroad, readily confesses he is still looking to strengthen the squad.

But, like their rivals at the top of the table Manchester United, Arsenal and Liverpool, they are finding it tough to make progress - and the transfer deadline comes up at the end of this month.

"Business for clubs like ours becomes more and more of a long shot, because we are pleased with what we have got," said the manager.

"To improve it we are looking for a rare animal - and the rare animal doesn't become available very often.

"It's easy to make signings. You are showered with faxes about players you may not have heard of from countries as far reaching as Uruguay as well as from countries like Belgium and Holland."So it's easy to buy, but that doesn't necessarily make it easier to find the right men.

"It also means there is going to be a lot of speculation.

"But I think clubs like ourselves and the others you have mentioned have more of a policy, so you have to be more patient and wait for the players you are looking for to become available."

Hodgson, who was reluctant to accept Bohinen's second transfer request but admitted he could not guarantee the player regular first team football, will be surprised at an apparent lack of interest in the midfielder.

A number of Norwegian clubs were said to be ready to bid for him but it could be that he is too expensive for them.

And, despite speculation, English clubs have not moved in so far.

Hodgson said: "There will be interest in Lars Bohinen because he is a very good player.

"And we do know there are clubs at home and abroad who would like his services.

"I am expecting to hear from clubs about him."

Chief Executive John Williams, however, confirmed today that no offers had been tabled.

"We have not had any bids yet which does surprise me," he said.

Hodgson, of course, will be quite happy to hold onto Bohinen for as long as possible.

He rates the player highly, even though he has been unable to offer him a regular spot and Bohinen remains important to the squad.

The manager generally preferes to play with two wingers, which in the interests of balance counts against using a midfielder whose main asset is to play further forward, behind two strikers.

Meanwhile, Rovers' next opponents Leeds United beat Tottenham 1-0 at Elland Road last night.

Rovers fans should note that tickets for the game at Elland Road will only be available from Ewood until the close of business on Monday.

They will be on sale at Elland Road on the night of the game but concessionary prices will not be available for supporters who wait until then to buy seats.

Prices are £22-50 adults, £15 concessions.

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