McCarthy set for Rovers deal
11 Apr 2008 - 13:37:38
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- McCarthy set for Rovers deal
Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes has revealed that striker Benni McCarthy is on the verge of signing a new contract.
The South Africa striker has struggled to recapture the highs of his first season in the Premier League during the current campaign, but Hughes is keen for the former Celta Vigo and FC Porto star to remain at Ewood Park.
McCarthy scored 26 times in his debut season, but has returned just 11 goals during the current campaign.
"I don't think it is actually signed, but I think we are as close as we have ever been," revealed Hughes.
"It has been a long, drawn-out negotiation, but we are very hopeful it will be coming to a conclusion sooner rather than later.
"I think it is important we show to everyone that we are a club that are trying to keep our best players here and Benni is certainly one of those.
"He had an outstanding first season. This season has been a little stop-start for Benni but he has still scored goals.
"The fact Benni will be with us for a number of seasons is very reassuring from my point of view.
"If we can keep all our players, and there is no reason why we can't, then we will continue to progress.
"You can't afford good quality players to go out of your club if you can do something about it.
"We have moved to try to make sure Benni is secure here and he can now focus on his career until the end of his contract."