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A talented sporting all-rounder, Ryan turned his back on a promising cricket career to take up a university place in North Carolina, transferring to a football scholarship at California's Stanford University at the age of 21.

He stayed in America until January 2005 when he signed an initial 18-month deal with Rovers after a short trial. He was twice nominated in the MSL All-star side for his performances with DC United and has made a huge impact at Ewood Park at the heart of defence since his arrival.

The 2008/09 campaign saw 'Nelly' back to his defensive best, playing a key role in securing Rovers' Premier League status.

After four seasons with the club, Ryan finally scored his first goal. Having struck the woodwork on too many occasions to mention, the New Zealand international glanced a free-kick home in Rovers' 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic in April 2009.

The 2010 World Cup saw Ryan in inspirational form for New Zealand as he captained them through their unbeaten three-match campaign. His exploits in South Africa would see him earn the New Zealand Order of Merit in the 2011 New Years Honours list.

To show his commitment to Rovers, Nelsen signed an extension to his existing contract in January 2011 that sees him contracted to the club until the summer of 2013.