Duff - Hot property after the World Cup

The deal ends weeks of negotiations with the Republic of Ireland World Cup star.

Rovers have also clinched the �1.5m signing of David Thompson from Coventry.

The former Liverpool midfielder will be eligible for Saturday's trip to Middlesbrough.

Thompson's fee could rise to �2.5m, depending on the performance of both player and team.

Rovers chief executive John Williams, welcoming Duff's new deal and Thompson's arrival, said: "This is a very significant announcement and we are delighted on both counts.

"Damien made it clear that he wanted to stay and both parties are delighted with the outcome of the negotiations.

"David is a player Graeme Souness identified some time ago and we are very pleased to have brought him on board ahead of Saturday's deadline."

Duff was linked with a move to Liverpool after returning from the World Cup finals where he greatly enhanced his reputation with some impressive performances.

But Rovers always maintained that Duff was going nowhere and would pledge his future to the club.

Now that the Irishman has signed a long-term deal Rovers will be confident they can keep any predators at bay unless a huge fee is involved.

The arrival of Thompson gives Souness experienced cover in midfield should Rovers run into injury problems between now and the next transfer window in January.