Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz is facing a race against time to be fit for the Rovers next league clash.

The Paraguayan has been struggling with knee tendinitis and decided to stay home from international duty to get himself right for the remainder of Blackburn's season.

"It is going better, I have been working hard in the gym to get the strength back to the leg and I have been playing a lot with pain in my knees," he said.

"Now that is getting really good and hopefully I can get back to 100% in the next game.

"The idea is to be fit for the Tottenham game. That is why I have not been involved and why me, the club and Paraguay decided not to travel to the international games so I can concentrate on the rehabilitation."