The Daily Mail says Hughes has been asked if he would consider rescuing Newcastle United from their managerial crisis. Blackburn boss Hughes, who masterminded a 2-1 victory at Bolton yesterday, has been made aware of Newcastle's needs through a high-profile transfer go-between.

Hughes, it is understood, feels he can take Blackburn only so far and those close to 'Sparky', 44, say he wants to test himself at a big club. The former Wales boss would want to take his own backroom staff - Mark Bowen, Glynn Hodges and Eddie Niedzwiecki - because they have played an important part in his achievements.