Hibernian defender Souleymane Bamba claims an international call-up blocked his chances of a summer move to Blackburn Rovers. The 24-year-old says his inclusion in the Ivory Coast squad for a 2010 World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso prevented the transfer being completed.

"It is true I was supposed to sign for Blackburn Rovers, but I was called up for a World Cup qualifier against Burkina Faso as an emergency," said Bamba.

"The mercato is finished, so nothing can be done now until January.

"With my performances, the fans and the media think that I am not going to be in the SPL for a long time, that I deserve to be in a bigger league.

"But me, I am fine here in Hibernian and I am continuing with the hard work to reach the top level.

"I am very happy because now I am playing for my country and, for a young player to be part of that group, it is fantastic.

"I am looking forward to the African Nations Cup where we are the favourites, and the World Cup, where we might be the surprise team. Hopefully 2010 will be our year."