Blackburn Rovers boss Sam Allardyce has told Newcastle United's boo-boys to take a reality check.

Ahead of this weekend's game, Allardyce said: "My question is why should I get any stick?

"Newcastle had 26 points when I was sacked and we were 11th.

"There seems to be a perception put about that I did a bad job - even though, in our first 10 games, we had the best start for a decade.

"If you look at Kevin's and Joe's record I think mine stands up against theirs."

Big Sam added: "I've got no regrets about going to Newcastle. It was the right club at the wrong time. I couldn't look into the future and see what was going to happen, nobody could.

"I thought it was going to be a big chance to spend big money but it didn't turn out to be the case. My time there was not a disaster like some people make it out to be. The first 10 games were a big big bonus for me. It was a really good achievement.

"I had changed the vast majority of the playing and the backroom staff. And those backroom people are all still employed throughout the leagues, many in the Premier League.

"They are very good at what they do. I chose the right staff for Newcastle and I don't think I have to justify myself."

Allardyce also revealed: "I'm not sure I'm as badly thought of up there as a lot of people claim, though.

"When we went to Blyth, which is just north of Newcastle, for our FA Cup tie I was told I was going to get it and I've never signed so many autographs and posed for so many photos.

"There was the odd one shouting "you fat *******" but I get that wherever I go!"