South Africa international Elrio van Heerden has joined Blackburn Rovers on a free transfer.

The 25-year-old attacking midfielder has agreed a three year deal after snubbing interest from other European clubs.

Van Heerden, who is similar in stature to national teammate Steven Pienaar, is quick with an eye for goal and can play on either flank or behind the strikers.

The former FC Copenhagen star was voted South Africa's best player in last year's African Cup of Nations.