Santa Cruz stays put at Ewood Park

BLACKBURN: Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz ended speculation about his future by signing a new four-year contract on Friday. 

Santa Cruz had been the subject of a bid from Manchester City during pre-season, while Aston Villa, Liverpool and Manchester United were also reported to be interested in the Parguay international. 

The 27-year-old enjoyed a superb first season at Blackburn after his move from Bayern Munich last year and scored 23 goals in all competitions.  

That form led former Rovers boss Mark Hughes to attempt to take him to Manchester City, but Paul Ince – Hughes’ successor – has persuaded his star striker to stay at Ewood Park. – AFP