Striker boost for Newcastle

Friday, 27/01/2012

Newcastle have been handed a massive striker boost following Senegal's exit from the African Cup of Nations.

Although the side have a game to play this weekend even if they win they are out of the tournament, meaning strikers Demba Ba and new boy Papiss Cisse will be on their way home.

United boss Alan Pardew expected the duo back in time for the game against Aston Villa next weekend – but there is a chance they might make Blackburn on Wednesday.

Pardew was set to lose his key striker and £9m transfer window buy for the next few weeks but Senegal's shock exit will come as a major boost.

The Mapgies will still be without battling midfielder Cheick Tiote as his Ivory Coast side have reached the quarter-finals of the tournament.

Meanwhile, Watford defender Adrian Mariappa is thought to be on the verge of handing in a transfer request following Newcastle's interest in the player.

United are believed to have bid £2m for a player the Hornets rate at twice that price. They could also face opposition for his signature from Swansea City, who are also believed to have prepared an offer.

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