Clark: It’s time for payback
NEWCASTLE centre-back Ciaran Clark has urged his side to go on another revenge mission when they visit troubled Blackburn tomorrow.
Dwight Gayle’s brace, which hoisted his goal haul to 19 this term, secured a 3-1 win over 10-man Nottingham Forest at St James’ Park on Friday – and ensured Toon went into the New Year as Championship leaders.
Newcastle lost 2-1 in a stormy reverse fixture with Forest a month ago when they had Jonjo Shelvey and Paul Dummett sent off — both red cards were later rescinded — and Clark was denied a legitimate goal.
Forest had Matt Mills dismissed in the latest encounter, but Clark said: “There was a lot of controversy in the game there and we felt we owed them one. With the Brighton game being called off as well, we knew there was a chance to go back to the top.
“With all those things in the back of our minds, there was an extra boost for us to go out and do well. It was obviously a good result in the end and a good performance.’’
Owen Coyle’s Blackburn are one of four sides who have won on Tyneside this season, and Clark stressed: “They came up here and beat us recently, so it’s another game where we will have to concentrate and make sure we’re at our best.
“The gaps can close quickly. Brighton have won a few, we’ve made a few mistakes, and that has cost us. We need to keep working hard and keep getting the right results.’’
Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has Senegal midfielder Mohamed Diame, Ghana winger Christian Atsu —– who is on loan from Chelsea — and DR Congo centre-back Chancel Mbemba available tomorrow, before they head off on Africa Cup of Nations duty. Benitez confirmed: “All of them are here until January 3.”