FOOTBALL fan Hilary Wheat believes Blackburn's capture of South American heart-throb Roque Santa Cruz will bring the female fans to Ewood Park in droves.

And she should know - she's watched him play in Paraguay ... and even met the £3.3million striker.

Hilary has been living in Asuncion, Paraguay, for four years and saw Santa Cruz play for his country in several World Cup qualifiers.

She said: "He really is the David Beckham of Paraguayan football.

"I'm delighted he's signed for Rovers, and it's a great way to get more women interested in football.

"Not only is he a good footballer, he's also gorgeous, has a great personality and is extremely popular with the people of Paraguay."

Hilary, originally from Nottingham, moved to South America for her teaching job.

She added: "I went to see Paraguay beat Venezuela, and after the match I met Roque in a restuarant, where he went with some friends after the game.

"He was so charming and gracious. I know he will fit in well at Blackburn."