Blackburn striker Benni McCarthy will return to the Rovers line-up for Wednesday night's Barclays Premier League clash against Aston Villa at Ewood Park.

The South African limped off early in Sunday's 2-2 draw at Fulham with a gashed leg but has responded well to treatment and will be available to start.

Roque Santa Cruz is also back after returning from international duty while Matt Derbyshire has passed a test on a thigh injury. David Dunn returns from suspension to give Hughes extra options in midfield.