EWOOD chairman Robert Coar revealed last night that Blackburn Rovers had been close to signing two top internationals last summer.

And he stressed they are still in the market for big names - a fact re-iterated today by manager Ray Harford, pictured top right, as he said he was looking to buy before the transfer deadline.

Mr Coar had been asked by shareholders at the annual meeting why the club had not strengthened significantly with the UEFA Champions' League in mind.

"We tried to purchase players last summer because we realised you have to move forward," he said. "We were very close to signing a couple of international players.

"But they both eventually signed new contracts with their clubs."

I understand that one of their targets was Darren Anderton, the Spurs and England star who has since been dogged by long-term injury problems.

Mr Coar added: "We are still on the lookout for international players. But identifying them and then prising them free is another matter."

There was a call from shareholders for more communication and some acknowledgement of their status.

It was pointed out that they had put money - however little - into the club many years ago when it had been desperately needed. One felt there should be some priority for shareholders when tickets for away games were limited.

Mr Coar said the club would consider what had been said.

The Walkersteel Stand's future was discussed and Mr Coar said: "We have no plans in the foreseeable future to do anything with the Walkersteel Stand.

"I think the public have been magnificent in their support and our average attendance has risen over a few years to around 27,500. But I think it will be a couple of years before we actually decide anything about that side of the ground."

The capacity of just under 31,000 will probably be reached about half a dozen times this season.

Looking to the future, Mr Coar said: "There are no guarantees but we have the management, players and infrastructure and we have to try to get into Europe.

"You have to be philosophical. In three seasons in the Premier League we have been fourth, second and first above clubs like Liverpool. But we have had a lot of major injuries this season."

The chairman also revealed that the club were hoping to play at least some of their reserve games at Ewood next season.

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