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Blackburn boss Hughes: Santa Cruz best I've seen

Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes says Roque Santa's Cruz reactions are the best he's seen in a striker.

Santa Cruz took his goal tally to 23 this season in Saturday's victory over Derby and Hughes said: "Roque is the best I've seen at anticipating things coming off the keeper or the bar.

"He's always on the front foot and if a striker's got that it's a sure sign you've got a natural finisher at the club. It is not just about Roque's goals but also about his tremendous work ethic.

"Roque has had an outstanding first season and has probably surpassed even his own expectations. In truth I always knew he was an exceptionally talented player but with his past record he may have been seen by many as a risk.

"But I knew if he got run and stayed clear of injuries and got off the mark early, that was going to help him, and Roque has been exceptional for us throughout the season."

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