Roberts: Benni must stay
27 Jun 2007 - 11:10:19
Blackburn striker Jason Roberts is desperate to see his Rovers team-mate Benni McCarthy remain at Ewood Park next season.
McCarthy has been linked with Chelsea and Manchester United after a superb first season in England, but Roberts is hopeful that the South African will stay put.
He told the Lancashire Telegraph: "I'm hoping he doesn't go, obviously, because he's someone who would be really missed around the place.
"He is someone who has got a great spirit and has won so much in his career.
"But I'm not surprised that clubs are in for him. Benni's a professional and he's enjoyed his time at Blackburn, but obviously it's hard when clubs come in for you.
"I'm quite confident he will be at Blackburn next year."
McCarthy netted 24 goals in 50 appearances for Rovers last term, following his cut-price £2.5million arrival from FC Porto.
Meanwhile, Rovers boss Mark Hughes is reportedly ready to pull the plug on a permanent deal for AS Roma striker Shabani Nonda.
Nonda, 30, scored eight goals in 36 appearances during a season-long loan spell at Ewood Park last term.