Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes was delighted with the form of South Africa striker Benni McCarthy after Sunday's victory over Birmingham City.

"Benni was excellent," said Hughes, who has overlooked McCarthy in recent weeks.

"He came on at half time and made a real impact. The sharpness to his work was there, and he looked to be enjoying himself again.

"He wanted the ball, wanted to get into good positions, he was dynamic and working hard for the team.

"He's back in the kind of shape to have an impact on a Premier League game, which he did yesterday.

"Benni understood the situation. I explained what I felt, and I know he agreed because he got his head down and worked extremely hard.

"Now he wants to get back into the side, which is a great sign."