Blackburn Rovers FC

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• Founded:1875
• Manager:Steve Kean

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Rovers set for Roque boost

16 Jan 2009 - 12:13:18

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Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce has spoken of the "bonus" at being able to call on Roque Santa Cruz for the first time in Saturday's visit of Newcastle United.

The Paraguay striker, who has been strongly linked with a move to Manchester City in the transfer window, has been sidelined with a calf strain since Allardyce took over at Ewood Park last month.

Last season's 23-goal top-scorer has been the subject of two rejected bids from the big-spending Citizens, but Allardyce will have no qualms about pitching the unsettled striker into action on Saturday.

The Rovers chief is also set to welcome midfielder David Dunn back from the hamstring strain which has sidelined him since Boxing Day.

However, new signing Gael Givet will not feature as the France defender is short of match-fitness following his arrival on loan from Marseille.

"The biggest bonus as well as signing Gael Givet is the involvement back into the squad and training of Roque Santa Cruz and David Dunn," Allardyce told the club's official website.

"I think that is a massive bonus for us this week."