Ameobi ready to Sho his worth

Senegal goal machine Ba - who has netted 15 Premier League goals this campaign - jetted off to play in the African Nations Cup after Wednesday's 3-0 win over Manchester United, but Ameobi is confident he can ease the loss of his in-form team-mate.

Ameobi has hit the net just once in all competitions this term, but the 30-yeard-old is confident he can find his shooting boots - starting with Saturday's FA Cup third round clash with Blackburn at St James' Park.

"Demba has gone so it is a big opportunity for someone to step in and do a job," said Ameobi. "I am sure someone will do that and, hopefully, it will be myself and I can really get a run of games.

"I want to get a bit of confidence, go on from there and try and get some goals. I feel good. When you are not playing too much it can get to you - though I have always maintained my positive outlook.

"If I am asked, I know I can give the performances that are needed to help us win games."

And the Nigerian born forward thinks the Toon Army - who were dumped out in the third round to Stevenage last season - can mount a serious challenge to reach Wembley this time around.

He added: "Alan Pardew really wants to bring silverware to this club. The manager has such enthusiasm the week before every cup game we play.

"He really makes us understand the importance. All through the week he speaks about it, winning the trophy and doing something great for the fans and the city."