Blackburn, under the management of Owen Coyle sit just inside the relegation zone. Six years into the unpopular regime of the Venky family, Blackburn are struggling for attendances and performances, the latter not helped by the sale of a number of the star players. Jordan Rhodes goal presence, whilst overlooked at the Boro is missed at Ewood park.
Team News
Grant Hanley is not available to face his former team, joining Colbck and Aarons as confirmed injuries. Shelvey is available pending his misconduct hearing, also joining Dummett on the precipice of a one game ban for accumulating five yellows.
Blackburn can call on former Smoggie Marvin Emnes, but former mag Guthrie is out. Other absensees include Adam Hanley, Elliott Ward, Gordon Greer, Scott Wharton and Tommie Hoban.
Predicted Line Up
<yedlin> <mbemba> <lazaar>
<atsu> <hayden> <shelvey>
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Manager Quotes
Benitez wrote:Blackburn have a manager with experience, and he know what he has to do to win games.
We are doing well but before any game I send the same message: Focus on the game & 3 points. It is more important than ever.
Blackburn have played well recently. We’re talking about a good team that are in a bad position. We have to be concentrated.
Referee David CooteCoyle wrote:It shows the strength of Newcastle’s squad that Grant, who we all know is a very good player and a really nice young man, has found himself on the bench and only started a few games.
But football can change quickly. In Grant’s case, when you are out of the team you have to make sure you are working your socks off on the training ground so when the chance presents itself you are ready to take the chance and stay in the team, irrespective of what club you are at.
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