ROVERS midfielder Elliott Bennett hailed the Ewood team spirit as a major factor in the 29-year-old signing a new deal.

Bennett has extended his Rovers stay until the summer of 2021, following in the footsteps of skipper Charlie Mulgrew who also put pen to paper this week.

Rovers, without a game this week due to the international break, are on the fringes of the Championship play-offs following a successful start to the season under Tony Mowbray.

And Bennett, who has been a key man under the Rovers boss, said: “I love coming into work every day and pulling on that shirt on a Saturday and Tuesdays.

“It’s a joy to come into work every day. Everyone is smiling, nobody’s moody and you’re seeing your mates really.

"We’re all striving for success and they are colleagues, but we’re all such good friends.

“Nobody wants to let anyone down and that's the spirit we have within the group."

Fan-favourite Bennett arrived in East Lancashire from Norwich City in January 2016 and has become a popular figure on and off the pitch.

He and has started exactly 100 games for the club and said the opportunity to sign on the dotted line was an easy decision.

“I’m buzzing," Bennett said. "As soon as the club and my agent spoke I was extremely keen to get the deal signed. It was a very, very easy decision.

“It’s no secret how much I love playing for this club and ever since I’ve walked through the door it’s been fantastic.

“It feels like home here. I get on unbelievably well with all the lads, the staff around the training ground, everyone really.

"The fans have taken to me really well, which helps. You don’t want to ever be at a club where the fans don’t want you!"