Rankin-Costello deal done!

Rovers are delighted to announce that Joe Rankin-Costello has signed a new long-term contract to commit his future to the club.

The 21-year-old has penned a deal that will keep him at Ewood Park until at least June 2024.

Seen as one of Rovers' brightest prospects, Rankin-Costello came through the Academy having joined back in 2014 following his departure from Manchester United.

Having progressed through the ranks from the Under-18s to the Under-23s, Rankin-Costello made his league debut for Rovers in the emphatic 5-0 win over Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough back in January 2020.

He's been a firm part of Tony Mowbray's first-team squad ever since and, despite an injury-hit 2020-21 campaign, appeared 16 times last term, scoring once - against Doncaster Rovers in the EFL Cup win at the beginning of the season.

"I'm buzzing to sign long-term here as I've loved every minute of the six years I've spent here so far," he beamed after putting pen to paper.

"The plan has always been to stay here as long as I possibly could.

"Injuries have always hurt me but I really do love playing for this football club when I am fit.

"The gaffer's always shown that faith and belief in me. He's been so good for me, he trusts me and I always look to reward him for that," he added.

"He's someone I really love working under and I'm pleased that's going to continue.

"The manager was the man who gave me my chance and I'll always be grateful for that."

Congratulations, Joe!