BLACKBURN have tied down striker Roque Santa Cruz to a new contract.The Paraguayan was wanted by ex-Rovers boss Mark Hughes at Manchester City.But the ex-Bayern Munich ace has committed his future to the Ewood Park club by signing a four-year deal.It is a huge boost for Rovers boss Paul Ince, who has already lost England star David Bentley to Tottenham this summer.City had looked to be in pole position to sign Santa Cruz when they tabled a £12million bid last week.But Blackburn insisted their top scorer was not for sale and rejected the offer, even though it was three times the amount they paid for him just 12 months ago.
Rovers had gambled on Santa Cruz when they paid less than £4m for him despite a series of serious knee injuries.But the move paid off as he played 36 of 38 Premier League games last season and scored 19 goals.
This is really excellent news for Blackburn Rovers fans, Santa Cruz is an invaluable player to Blackburn and will be vital if they are to improve on last years finish.