Shearer hails Hughes

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That is the verdict of former England and Rovers striker Alan Shearer, who says Hughes deserves to be applauded for securing the South African's signature.

"I am surprised other teams did not have a pop at McCarthy," said the former Newcastle star. "He has always been a top scorer and it was a great coup for Mark Hughes to get him."

He added: "He has been inspirational for them. If you are going to win games you need goalscorers and Blackburn have them."

Shearer has nothing but admiration for the way former Wales boss Hughes has changed the landscape at Ewood Park and turned the club into European contenders.

He said: "They are doing really well and have a good set up. It is very thorough and professional.

"Blackburn are now battling to get into the top four but whether that will happen I am not really sure. But they will not be far behind."

South Africa midfielder Aaron Mokoena could play in Saturday's early evening clash with Liverpool despite being forced off at Fratton Park.

Fears he may have broken his leg proved to be unfounded and Hughes will assess the player's fitness today.

He said: "Mokoena is okay, thankfully. He got a bang on his leg where a plate had earlier been inserted. It is not as bad as we initially thought but he might have a scan just as a precaution."