McCarthy: Striker fight will be no Cruz for Roque

Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy believes Roque Santa Cruz faces a fight to claim a first team berth.

Paraguay international Santa Cruz, who has arrived from Bayern Munich, is aiming to establish himself in England after eight years with the Bundesliga side.

But he will come up against stiff competition in attack from McCarthy, Jason Roberts, Matt Derbyshire and Maceo Rigters.

McCarthy said: “It is not going to be easy for him because Jason’s back and he’s on fire.

“I do not think I’m ready to give up my place in the first XI either.

“But the more competition we get, the better. Blackburn is a serious club.”