I'd have signed a 'lifetime contract' at Rovers - Smallwood

Smallwood penned a new two year deal at Ewood Park, taking him through to the summer of 2020.

The 27-year-old only joined from Rotherham United 12 months ago but soon become a firm fans favourite.

Affectionately known as the ‘King of Ewood’ Smallwood was the only member of the squad to start every league match, making 52 appearances in all competitions. The former Middlesbrough youngster follows Darragh Lenihan and Derrick Williams in signing new deals, with Bradley Dack set to follow suit.

“It felt like home ever since I arrived here. I knew a few faces from previous clubs and I worked with the gaffer before so I settled in really quickly,” he said.

“I didn’t move house so there was a little bit of travelling but I’ve absolutely loved it since I walked through the door.

“I’m looking forward to the challenge this coming season. This contract is just a new contract and I’ll be working towards the next one straight away. If it was up to me I’d have signed a lifetime contract here.”

Smallwood won promotion from League One for the second time last season, having achieved the same feat with Rotherham United.

He has experience of the second tier with the Millers and is excited by the challenge which faces Rovers next term.

And after success on a personal and team level, there was never any doubt about extending his stay in East Lancashire.

“It took a bit longer than what I thought it would, but I’m really pleased to get it signed.

“It was an easy decision and there wasn’t really a time where I had to think about it. It was about when I was going to sign, not if.

“It’s been unbelievable here and everything’s gone to plan for me personally and us as a team.

“We had a great season and it was as I expected because I knew the quality we had in the squad and I knew we could get out of the division.

“Everyone played their part, the manager, staff and players, and as a collective group we got the job done.”