Roque KO'd for Paraguay

Striker facing three weeks out

Last updated: 6th October 2008

Roque Santa Cruz goal celeb Paraguay

Santa Cruz: Laid low

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Blackburn striker Roque Santa Cruz has been ruled out of Paraguay's forthcoming World Cup qualifiers against Colombia and Peru.

Santa Cruz picked up a hamstring problem during his side's weekend defeat to Manchester United at Ewood Park.

Rovers boss Paul Ince had been hoping Santa Cruz would not be forced to link up with Paraguay and the country's football federation have confirmed the 27-year-old will miss the Colombia and Peru clashes.

Santa Cruz admitted the injury was giving him real trouble amid fears he could be sidelined for up to three weeks.

"It's a pity but I will not be able to play," Santa Cruz told Paraguayan radio. "The injury is causing me real problems."

Rovers fear Santa Cruz could miss their next two Premier League games against Bolton and Blackburn with the injury.