New signing Richie Smallwood admits he is 'over the moon', having completed his move to Ewood Park.

The 26-year-old was a free agent after calling time on his three-year spell with Rotherham United and had various offers on the table.

But the midfielder insists his mind was made up as soon as Rovers came calling.

"I'm very excited," said Smallwood, who has signed a two-year deal with the club.

"I'm absolutely over the moon. It's a massive club that's looking to do big things and I want to be part of that.

"When this opportunity came up, there was only one place I was looking to come. It was an easy decision.

"I think they were unlucky to go down last season, because they certainly gave it a good shot towards the end, but they're looking to bounce straight back up and a promotion push is what I was looking at.

"It's just a fresh start really. I feel that I've got more to give and so that's what I'm looking to do."

Smallwood's arrival in East Lancashire sees him reunited with Rovers boss Tony Mowray, with the pair having worked together at Middlesbrough at the start of Smallwood's career.

When this opportunity came up, there was only one place I was looking to come. It was an easy decision. Richie Smallwood

The new Rovers recuit insists that linking up with Mowbray again was a major factor in his decision to make the move, as he is confident his game will improve as a result.

"I've worked with the manager before, I know how he works and the style of play that he likes, which was good," added Smallwood.

"I was quite a young lad when I was there (at Middlesbrough), I was just breaking through, but he made me a better player and a player who would go on to have a decent professional career.

"He's a very good coach, as is his assistant, Mark Venus.

"He's a coach, so he makes you a better player and that's what they want - they want to make you a better player and they do a very good job of that, so when I knew the opportunity arose, I wanted to be a part of it."

• Don't forget, Rovers fans now have extra time to take advantage of the club's price freeze on season tickets for the 2017-18 season.

The great-value Early Bird offer - and claim your seat deadline - has been extended until Saturday July 1st.

With adult prices starting from just £279, it means supporters who buy or renew a season ticket can see all the action at Ewood Park for less than £13 per game.

For more details, visit the new supporter portal 'My Rovers' at www.my-rovers.co.uk