Preview: Blackburn Rovers vs. Newcastle United

Alan Pardew will be desperately hoping that Senegalese strike pair Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse will return from the Africa Cup of Nations in time to feature for Newcastle in their trip to Blackburn on Wednesday.

Senegal made a surprise exit from the competition after losses to Equatorial Guinea, Zambia and Libya in the group stage.

Pardew has reportedly accepted that the players may not make it in time and is planning for the game at Ewood Park in their absence.

Yohan Cabaye will be missing after being charged with violent conduct on Monday so Ryan Taylor is likely to continue in a midfield role.

For the home side, top scorer Yakubu is still suspended so David Goodwillie will continue to spearhead the attack while Christopher Samba, if not transferred on Tuesday, could overcome an illness to feature.

Current league form:

Blackburn: LDWLWD Newcastle: LWLWWL

Possible lineups:

Blackburn: Robinson; Samba, Dann, Givet, Olsson; Lowe, N'Zonzi, Dunn, Pedersen; Hoilett, Goodwillie

Newcastle: Krul; Simpson, Williamson, Coloccini, Santon; Obertan, R Taylor, Guthrie, Gutierrez; Best, Ameobi

Sports Mole says: 1-2