STEVEN Reid is ready to cement his place as the driving force in Blackburn Rovers' midfield after finally putting to bed all the speculation regarding his future.

The Republic of Ireland international was one of the leading lights in Rovers' charge for the top six last term, turning in a series of powerful displays in the midfield engine room as the club secured a UEFA Cup place.

That stunning form saw Reid linked with big-money moves to Manchester United and Tottenham, the latter finally tabling an offer, believed to be in the region of £2 million, at the start of the summer.

But, after a heart-to-heart with his partner, Reid decided to snub the chance of a move to White Hart Lane, preferring instead to commit his future to Blackburn, where he believes more good times lie ahead under the shrewd leadership of Hughes.

The former Millwall ace, who recently signed a new four-year deal, said: "My main aim was to stay here; that's what I wanted to do all along.

"There was a bit of speculation about me going elsewhere, but I didn't feel any need to move on.

"At the end of the day, I love this place and everyone, from the chef to the manager, has been brilliant with me since I came here.

"After a difficult first year and a half, I thought I had a good season last year and I just felt I owed it to the fans to stay, which is what I've done."

Born and bred in London, it's easy to see why a return to the capital might have held a certain appeal for Reid, who is due to become a father for the first time in December.

However, after being reassured by his partner that she was happy to support any decision to stay in the North West, Reid opted to extend his stay at Blackburn, where he believes he can fulfil his potential under the guidance of Hughes and his coaching team.

"I had a chat with the missus when the contract talks were going on and told her I wanted to stay, and she was happy to stay up here as well, so I signed for another four years at least," said Reid.

"Now, I'm looking forward to building on what was a good season for me, personally, and the team last year.

"I know people might say that Spurs are a bigger club, but there was only a couple of points difference between us in the league last season and, to be honest, when we played them down there, that was probably one of our best performances of the season.

"I've really enjoyed my time up here so far and the missus is really settled here.

"We've also got a baby on the way so I just thought there was no reason for me to move on."