New Man City signing Santa Cruz was inspired by fans

Roque Santa Cruz was persuaded that a move to Manchester City would be the correct one after listening to Blues fans talk about him on radio phone-ins.

The Paraguayan's £18million arrival at Eastlands represented the end of a 12-month pursuit by boss Mark Hughes.

"I know how passionate and excited the fans are," he said.

"I heard it on the radio when the fans were ringing up talking about the possibility of me coming here.

"It took 40 or 50 minutes to get to Manchester, so I always used to listen to the radio, initially to improve my English.

"It was very helpful to listen to things about football and it was interesting to hear what the fans said about the fact I might join City."