Blackburn boss Mark Hughes has handed South African striker Benni McCarthy a new three-year contract at Ewood Park.McCarthy had an outstanding debut season in England when he grabbed 24 goals following his move from Porto in 2006.

This season the goals have not flowed as much with Roque Santa Cruz capturing the headlines, but McCarthy has still hit double figures and underlined his importance to Rovers.

McCarthy had been linked with a possible move to Chelsea during Jose Mourinho's tenure - as he also coached him at Porto, but the South African is seemingly more than happy with life at Ewood Park - which has persuaded him to extend his stay.

His current deal will be signed shortly and will take him to June 2011 - beyond the World Cup in South Africa, where he will hope to star for his homeland.

The new deal will be penned once Rovers have negotiated a fresh work-permit, which should be a mere formality.

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