Peter Whittingham signs Blackburn deal after Cardiff exit

Blackburn have strengthened their squad ahead of the 2017/18 campaign with the signing of former Cardiff midfielder Peter Whittingham on a two-year deal.

The 32-year-old was out of contract and, although it has been reported that he was offered a new deal by the Bluebirds, has opted to become Rovers boss Tony Mowbray's first signing.

Blackburn were relegated from the Championship on the final day of last season and Mowbray will be hoping to guide them back into the second tier at the first opportunity.

Whittingham began his career with Aston Villa and made over 50 first-team appearances, but he had been at Cardiff since 2007.

He made 457 appearances for the Welsh side, scoring 96 goals and helping them to an FA Cup final (2008), a League Cup final (2012) and the Championship title (2013).

Whittingham said: "I've had ten-and-a-half awesome years at Cardiff City, reached several cup finals that I never thought I'd reach, won promotion, and played a lot of games at this great club.

"For me now, it is time for a new challenge.

"I'm not one of those footballers who can train all week and sit and watch a match. I want to play as many games as possible - and I think, at this stage of my career, this move will help me to do so.

"I would like to thank the players and staff who I've had the privilege of working with, and playing alongside, at firstly Ninian Park, and later Cardiff City Stadium.

"I must say, my rapport with the Cardiff City supporters is something that I've always cherished."

Cardiff boss Neil Warnock said: "As a manager, I often see players kiss the badge and move on swiftly afterwards.

"In Peter, Cardiff City have had a fantastic servant who has been loyal to the club through ups and downs. Quite rightly, he is adored by Cardiff City supporters.

"Peter loves playing football and he knows he will play regular football at Blackburn Rovers. As a person, he was one of the best professionals I've managed and we all wish him well."