The South African striker has enjoyed a tremendous first season in English football, netting 23 goals in all competitions since his £2.5million summer switch from Porto.

But the 29-year-old is desperate to get back into the competition he won under Jose Mourinho in 2004.

"I miss Champions League football," he said in the Sun.

"When I'm at home in the week watching the Champions League on TV and hear that music, it makes me realise that there's a part of my football make-up that is missing - the challenge of being part of the best, playing against the best.

"Champions League football means everything for any player with ambitions."

McCarthy added he would struggle to turn down an approach from Mourinho's Chelsea.

"I've enjoyed playing for Blackburn - and the manager and his staff are first-class. The club is really friendly and professional," he said.

"But, at 29 years old, if a club like Chelsea comes looking for you, you must seriously consider the opportunity.

"Not necessarily from a financial perspective but from a point of view where you can win trophies and compete against the AC Milans and Barcelonas of this world.

"A chance to go to Chelsea - or any other Champions League team in England or Spain - would be hard to turn down.

"Blackburn gave me my chance and, even though it was not a big transfer fee, I trust that I have already paid them back with my commitment and goals this season.

"If I end up being sold by Blackburn and they make a good profit, fantastic, they deserve it.

"Mourinho has coached me. We won things together and he really knows me inside out.

"If he ever were to sign me again, it would be because he knows exactly what he's getting and that I've managed to settle down in England quite quickly.

"It would be a big challenge to win a regular start in a club like Chelsea but why shouldn't I have confidence in my own abilities? I know I can compete with the best."