Alan Pardew hopes for Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse return

Newcastle United manager Alan Pardew has said that he "hopes" Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse will return from the Africa Cup of Nations in time for Wednesday's trip to Blackburn Rovers.

The duo are expected back in England in the coming days after Senegal's elimination from the competition.

"We've lost the core of this team," said Pardew. "I've no idea whether they will all be back for Wednesday. I hope so."

The Magpies are currently sixth in the Premier League table.