Premier League preview: Newcastle v Blackburn

A rejuvenated Blackburn Rovers outfit travel to St James’ Park on Saturday to battle with Newcastle United.

Steve Kean’s side have recorded two wins in a row and have lost just one of their last five matches, although two of their wins in that time have come in the Carling Cup.

But the Rovers responded to criticism with a terrific 4-3 win against Arsenal on Saturday, in which they had to come from behind twice.

Veteran striker Yakubu – signed from Everton on transfer deadline day – netted a double in that win and looks a smart signing and Blackburn responded with a 3-2 win over Leyton Orient on Tuesday that is sure to boost confidence at the club.

Australian midfielder Vince Grella made his first appearance after seven months on the sidelines in Tuesday’s win, with the Socceroo showing no sign of the Achilles injury that has dogged him throughout 2011.

Grella completed a full 90 minutes and his bite in midfield will be crucial for Blackburn as they battle for survival this season.

Despite the recent upturn in form, Kean’s men still sit 16th in the English Premier League and will have their work cut out against a Newcastle United side who are yet to lose a league match this season.

Newcastle currently sit fourth with two wins and three draws from their five games and they are showing that despite being without Andy Carroll and Kevin Nolan – the club’s two top scorers last season – they are still more than capable of gaining results.

Key to Newcastle’s success has been the miserly defence, which has conceded just two goals in five matches, with the impressive Tim Krul starring in goal for Alan Pardew’s side.

The likes of Fabricio Coloccini and Steven Taylor have also played their part in central defence, and if they can keep Blackburn quiet, then you would fancy the Magpies to score given the fact Blackburn have conceded an average of two goals per game.

Newcastle’s Peter Lovenkrands should enter the match with confidence, having bagged a double in the club’s 4-3 extra-time win over Nottingham Forest in the Carling Cup.

On the injury front, Blackburn will have Morten Gamst Pedersen, David Dunn (hamstring) and Ryan Nelsen (knee) sidelined for the match while Newcastle are only missing fringe players and have essentially a full-strength squad to choose from.