BLACKBURN Rovers have quashed speculation linking Benni McCarthy with a summer move to Manchester United.

McCarthy fuelled stories about his future when he admitted in an interview that he has 'always dreamed about playing for United'; comments which were subsequently taken out of context and recycled in certain sections of the national press.

However, Rovers are not unduly concerned by the quotes attributed to their 18-goal leading scorer, because they appreciate the context in which they were originally meant, and they fully expect McCarthy to be at the club next season.

A source close to the club told the Lancashire Telegraph: "There's nothing in this as far as we are concerned.

"We fully expect Benni to be with us next season, and that's certainly what the manager and the board are planning for."

McCarthy has made no secret of the fact he grew up supporting United as a youngster in South Africa, and he has previously stated that he always dreamed of playing for them one day.

However, as he approaches his 30th birthday, the former Porto star is also realistic enough to accept such an opportunity has now probably passed him by, and he is content instead with life at Blackburn, where he has made an impressive impact during his first season in England.

Speaking in United's matchday programme at the weekend, McCarthy said: "I've always dreamed about playing for United.

"That's not being disrespectful to Blackburn because it's a very good club, and the management, players and fans have all made me very welcome.

"I love the intensity in England and at the moment my ambition is to help make Blackburn a big force in the Premier League and win the FA Cup. But I'm a dreamer.

"With attackers like United have I don't think I've much chance of moving to Old Trafford but I want to see myself playing for the best.

"You must have ambition; without ambition, players are nothing."