Blackburn defender Chris Samba has signed a new contract with the Rovers, securing his long-term future at Ewood Park. The centre-back's new contract will keep him on Sam Allardyce's side until 2014. Samba joined Rovers from German Bundesliga side Hertha Berlin in January 2007 in a £400,000 deal, and has gone on to make over 100 appearances for the club. He is an integral part of the club's defence, and even stepped in for the club as a striker at times during the closing stages of last season, with Allardyce short of options due to injuries. Chairman John Williams believes the 25-year-old Congo international has earned the lengthy contract as a result of his outstanding displays in recent times. He told the club's official website: "I am delighted that we have been able to secure Chris on a new long-term deal, which is an important deal for the club. "It has been richly deserved through his performances over the past few seasons, particularly during the last campaign when he demonstrated a tremendous attitude when playing in an unfamiliar role as a striker."