Roberts hopeful of Samba stay

26 June 2011 08:20
lackburn forward Jason Roberts would not blame Chris Samba if he wanted to join Arsenal but hopes Rovers can somehow keep him at Ewood Park.[LNB] Samba, who signed a contract extension until 2015 in February, has been heavily linked with a move to Arsenal, and Roberts admits it would be difficult for the powerful centre-back to resist a move to the Emirates.[LNB]He told Sky Sports News HD: "There's no doubt Chris Samba has done well for the football club and he signed a new contract recently.[LNB]"I'm sure the club will do everything in their power to keep him, but Arsenal's a big challenge and a big club and you would understand if he wants to go and play Champions League football as much as it would be an issue for us.[LNB]"I'm sure we're going to work hard to keep him. It's a big draw.[LNB]"I think, at every level, Chris Samba has exceeded expectations and he came here on trial and no-one knew who he was. [LNB]"Five years later you're talking about him having interest from a club like Arsenal, so I think with any situation he can rise to it, and I'm sure he would add to what they have.[LNB]"But, first and foremost, as his team-mate I'm hopeful that he will stay."[LNB]When asked whether he thinks Samba has the quality to play for Arsenal, Roberts added: "I think there is no doubt in that. You see what he has done and brought to our team.[LNB]"There is no doubt that he can perform at Champions League level."

Source: Team_Talk