Hughes pleased with forward options

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The South Africa international, who has scored 11 goals this season, has signed a two-year extension to his existing contract to kill off speculation of a move away from Lancashire.

Hughes said: "It's been a difficult season of late for Benni but there is no doubting his abilities. He's a proven international quality striker."

He added: "It was important that I knew that we have got his services for the next two or three years so it's a great signing for us."

Hughes has also been pleased with his £3.8 million acquisition from last summer Roque Santa Cruz who has notched 20 goals this term.

Cruz arrived at Blackburn with doubts over his fitness record but has proved his worth with an outstanding first season return.

"I'm sure everyone was aware of Roque and most clubs looked at him before I took the plunge and put my money where mouth was and I'm delighted that I backed my judgement and brought him here," Hughes added.

"People who looked closely at him and didn't take the plunge are probably regretting it.

"Prior to him coming here there were real doubts about whether or not he could sustain his fitness for a full season and a season in a physically demanding league that the Premier League is.

"Obviously that was a doubt before we kicked off this season but I think he's benefited from the fact that he's been playing week-in week-out and he's getting stronger by the day."