Roque back to boost Blackburn

Striker Roque Santa Cruz returns to Blackburn’s squad for the visit of Newcastle tomorrow.

The Paraguay international has missed the last two matches with a groin injury but has now fully recovered.

Defender Gael Givet (groin) is still not fit, although utility player Phil Jones’ rehabilitation from a knee operation is ahead of schedule and he is set for a possible return in April.

January signings Mauro Formica, who arrived from Argentinian side Newell Old Boys, and Ruben Rochina, from Barcelona, are still a few weeks away from featuring as they continue their integration into the squad.

Provisional squad: Robinson, Salgado, Samba, Nelsen, Olsson, Hoilett, Andrews, J Jones, Dunn, MB Diouf, Santa Cruz, Pedersen, Bunn, Hanley, Emerton, Nzonzi, Grella, Benjani, Roberts, Kalinic.