John

Blackburn's manager, Sam Allardyce, signed Barton for Newcastle almost two years ago from Manchester City and is ready to offer him another fresh start.

I can see why people are saying sell Santa, but January is so difficult to buy real quality, plus prices are over inflated (for buying a replacement). Especially when trying to buy a striker who can score goals at this level and who will be willing to come to a club in the bottom 3. If it was the summer, I would say sell him because it suits all parties.

Not sure who the apparent club spokesman is: Benni not match fit and overweight

Its not Nicko's fault we have had a horrendous summer.

That is what I was questioning - don't understand....

?????

Point that I was making was that we had an ok season, considering we could not defend or take corners.

True. If only we sorted that aspect of our game out last season, we would have finished in the top 4......

I always stated that when Hughes and his coaching staff were to leave BRFC, we would realise how good they were. This is not a dig at Ince, but I fear he has a very tough task to continue/replicate the work Hughes did. Hughes: "My management team is the best in the Premier League. I would back them against anybody.

For you Lucash lovers..........

We will struggle to find anyone who can spend money as wisely as Hughes. As Sparky said, he cannot keep pulling rabbits out of the hat. It is impossible to keep finding really good bargains. Therefore, we will struggle, especially in this ultra competitive environment.

Before Hughes took over, I had a nightmare over Dowie becoming our manager. Those were tense days...

For those who need their fix of Sparky, he is on Sky Sports One just now as a pundit in the studio (he seems to be doing more pundit work recently on tv). Real Madrid are playing Levante (will be an end of season celebration for Real, as last home match and they have won the title).

Maybe worth the risk, but not sure if it my heart or my head making my decision. However, at 29 years old, injuries may have taken their toll on him.

Paraguay striker Roque Santa Cruz was carried off the field in the 21st after a hard tackle by Aaron Mokoena.

Hughes recent comments about most of our play going out right to Bentley might have had something to do with it.......

I have always rated Zurab. Classy defender, who has played well on the majority of occasions when asked. However, to reach his full potential, he needs a long run of games in the Premiership. I was about to say, which he will never get. But with Nelsen out for a while, he should get a chance.

Times report below on the Boro game. Blackburn must be aware that it is only a matter of time before the Welshman is lured to a bigger and better – read “wealthier” – club.

And Eddie, Mark Hughes is the reason why you have high expectations, which is great!

Spot on Andy.

I like the way the Axe went storming in looking for a scrap after Brad got kicked in the head (after the penalty).

I thought the big man did ok today!

We still are knocking it to Pedersen aerially but it does not seem to happen as high up the pitch (compared to last season).

Newcastle are looking at ways to terminate his contract if he is found guilty.

No wonder Gary seems to have a permanent grin on his face at the moment!!