Allardyce wants Santa Cruz to stay

Blackburn manager Sam Allardyce today hit out at the Premier League’s January transfer window, branding it “destructive” – but admits he is keen to use it in a bid to bolster his relegation-threatened side.

Allardyce has enjoyed a three-match unbeaten run since taking over at Ewood Park from Paul Ince but Rovers are still deep in trouble, lying next to bottom going into the New Year, and he is anxious to strengthen his squad.