Darragh Lenihan explains why he has signed for Middlesbrough and left Blackburn Rovers

Chris Wilder and the ambition of Middlesbrough was a big factor in Darragh Lenihan making the move to the Riverside.

The defender has left Blackburn Rovers after spending more than 10 years at Ewood Park. Lenihan turned down a new contract this summer and has signed a four-year deal with the fellow Championship club.

Boro chief Wilder has been a long-term admirer of the Irishman and wanted to sign him for Sheffield United when he was in charge there. He spoke glowingly of Lenihan's qualities following the announcement on Friday and the player himself is equally as excited at the prospect of working together.

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In his first interview with the Teesside club, Lenihan said: "Amazing feeling. The last couple of weeks, I was in talks and I just wanted to get it over the line. It's a great club, great setup and I'm looking forward to the new season. My agent said Middlesbrough were interested and the gaffer wants to get to the Premier League.

"It is the same ambition as mine and he was very impressive with what he had to say. He knows the league, he's got promoted (before) and this club itself is a Premier League club. You look around the training ground, the stadium, it's a really good club and it has great ambition.

"It was extremely difficult leaving Blackburn - 11 years there and the club that gave me a chance. But I felt that this was the right time for me and my family to explore something new. Once Middlesbrough came in for me, that was my decision made there and then. I am excited by the journey, to work with the new players, the coaching staff and the manager - I am just looking forward to seeing where it takes us.

"I said to my agent that I