Blackburn Rovers striker Jason Roberts: I’d understand if Christopher Samba left for Arsenal

Christopher Samba, Blackburn

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Blackburn Rovers striker Jason Roberts concedes he would understand if Christopher Samba moved to Arsenal this summer.

As exclusively revealed by Goal.com, the defender has already held advanced talks with the north London side over a potential transfer to the Emirates before the start of the new season.

Samba, who is contracted to Ewood Park until 2015, has admitted he would like a move away from the club if the chance arises, and his team-mate, Roberts, believes it would me difficult to turn down a switch to Arsene Wenger’s side.

“There’s no doubt Chris Samba has done well for the football club and he signed a new contract recently,” Roberts told Sky Sports. 

“I’m sure the club will do everything in their power to keep him, but Arsenal’s a big challenge and a big club and you would understand if he wants to go and play Champions League football as much as it would be an issue for us.

“I’m sure we’re going to work hard to keep him. It’s a big draw.”

Roberts praised the 27-year-old for his development since his arrival from Hertha Berlin in 2007, and insists the Congo international could meet the level demanded at the Emirates.

“I think there is no doubt in that he could meet the challenge. You see what he has done and brought to our team,” said Roberts.

“There is no doubt that he can perform at Champions League level.”

“I think, at every level, Chris Samba has exceeded expectations and he came here on trial and no-one knew who he was,” he said.

“Five years later you’re talking about him having interest from a club like Arsenal, so I think with any situation he can rise to it, and I’m sure he would add to what they have.

“But, first and foremost, as his team-mate I’m hopeful that he will stay.”