Last Updated: Fri, 02 May 2008 15:46
Benni McCarthy says talk of a move to Chelsea went to his head but has pledged his future to Blackburn for next season.
The South African striker was a revelation for Rovers in his debut season and finished just behind Didier Drogba in the goalscoring charts. McCarthy was soon linked with a move to Stamford Bridge were he would have linked up with then Blues boss and good friend Jose Mourinho.
A move failed to materialise but the damage was done and McCarthy has failed to live up to expectations this season.
"You are flattered by that because it could be a step up, and then it starts to create a bit of tension between your team-mates and the manager," he revealed.
"It can go to your head and unsettle you, and it's not been a great season because of that, but I've still scored a few goals."
The striker is now hoping to settle down and has vowed to get back to his best next season.
"Next season if I step up my game then with me, Roque, Jason Roberts, and Matt Derbyshire coming through, we'll have no problems in the striking department," he added.
"I'm 30 years old and I still hope, over the next two or three years, there may be the possibility of a sniff of the Champions League with this club."