Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes hailed Roque Santa Cruz after yesterday's 2-1 win at Sunderland.

The Paraguay striker made one and scored the other for Rovers and Hughes said: "He's a good player, he's got exceptional talent and he's quick. I think he takes people unawares on occasions as they don't realise how quick for a big guy he actually is.

"He works exceptionally hard for the team as well, he's really appreciated and respected by his team-mates for what his does to the team.

"He's a great player and a good guy as well and he scores goals."