Blackburn Rovers manager Jon Dahl Tomasson insists Ben Brereton Diaz had no chance to leave Ewood Park over the summer.
Fulham, Everton and Leeds United were all interested in the Chile international.
Tomasson told the Lancashire Telegraph: "After the game against Blackpool I brought him home, closed the door and he wasn't allowed to leave the house.
"There was no opportunity for him to go away.
"First, a big compliment to Ben the way he's been acting, he's been very professional, not every player is like that in a difficult situation.
"He's 23 and done all the right things to help his team-mates, the club and his only focus has been on the pitch.
"A big compliment for Ben and I'm happy we kept him."