Rovers Vill the gap left by Bentley

Aug 3 2008 By Jamie Hewitt

BLACKBURN boss Paul Ince has moved quickly to replace David Bentley by snapping up Chile midfielder Carlos Villanueva.

But Ince has warned the Rovers fans to be patient with the 22-year-old because it will take him time to get used to a new country.

The Chilean player of the year signed an initial one-year loan deal from Audax Italiano.

And the Lancashire side have the option to sign him permanently next summer after Villanueva quickly agreed terms on a three-year contract.

The attack-minded player has 12 caps for his country and was a prolific scorer with his former club.

Although he is unknown outside his native continent Ince is certain Villanueva will prove a big hit at Ewood Park.

He said: "It is an exciting signing.

Everyone is talking about him in that side of the world.

"He's a talented and skilful kid.

I'm sure he'll have the fans buzzing.

"Getting him here excites me and shows the kind of football I'm looking to play at Blackburn.

"We'll see how it goes as it is always hard when you move to a new country.

"I went to Italy and it took me a few months to settle down.

"So I don't want too much expectation on the lad - it will take him time to settle in but we believe we have a decent player."

Villanueva, nicknamed 'pineapple head', becomes Ince's second signing since taking charge following the arrival of England keeper Paul Robinson.

It is hoped he will add creativity to the midfield after Rovers sold Bentley to Tottenham this week for £17million.