Blackburn have rejected an undisclosed bid from Liverpool for their Australian full back Lucas Neill.

The Reds contacted Blackburn this week and made an offer for the 28-year-old, who can play at either right-back or left-back, but have had their bid knocked back.

Blackburn manager Mark Hughes is determined to hold onto Neill, who joined Rovers from Millwall in 2001.

Neill is an uncompromising defender who has more than his share of run-ins with referees and opponents alike.

He has already seen red this season when being sent-off against Portsmouth in the opening game.

He has just 12 months remaining on his contract which may make an improved offer hard to resist, however time is paramount for Liverpool with the transfer window due to close tomorrow night.