Newcastle finished only three points above Blackburn in 2010-11, but the two clubs are experiencing contrasting fortunes this season. The Magpies are level on points with third-placed Chelsea, having equalled their club record of 12 games unbeaten in the Premier League. Blackburn, meanwhile, sit bottom of the pile after Sunday's defeat against Tottenham, which was followed by more protests from unhappy fans.

Rovers won the League Cup in 2002 and have a good recent record in the competition, but under-fire manager Steve Kean may prefer to prioritise top-flight survival.

The Scot insists he is unconcerned by criticism from the Ewood Park crowd. He received backing on Sunday from Spurs boss Harry Redknapp, who felt the protests were "unfair" given Rovers' performance during the match.

Kean has struggled to win over Rovers fans since replacing Sam Allardyce, who was surprisingly sacked by new owners Venky's last season. Newcastle boss Alan Pardew found himself in a similar predicament at St James' Park, with many shocked to see predecessor Chris Hughton dismissed in December. However, impressive results this season mean there are few dissenting voices on Tyneside right now.

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