Newcastle United make FA Cup announcement after Sunderland controversy

Newcastle United will be boosted by another bumper away following when they visit Blackburn Rovers in the fifth round of the FA Cup later this month.

Eddie Howe's side take on the Championship outfit at Ewood Park on Tuesday, February 27 (kick-off 7:45pm) with around 7,000 tickets going on sale to Magpies' fans. Tickets are priced at £20 for adults, £10 for concessions (18 to 23 year-olds and over-65s) and £5 for under-18s.

Another bumper away end

United were backed by 6,000 supporters for their short trip to Sunderland in the third round last month, much to the displeasure of their bitter Tyne-Wear rivals.

Conservative councillor Dominic McDonough wrote: "I am writing to express my shock and disappointment at the announcement that Newcastle fans have been allocated an incredible 6,000 tickets for next month's derby match at the Stadium of Light.

"As a Sunderland supporter of over 25 years with experience of a number derby games, I feel that this is a bad move and one which may lead to increased tension between fans. The policing operation to segregate and escort 6,000 fans safely to the stadium will be huge and costly, putting unnecessary pressure on officers and club officials."

However, the fixture was managed well by Northumbria Police with little trouble occurring after Newcastle fans were made to travel to the Stadium of Light on organised coaches from St James' Park. Howe's men won 3-0 after an own goal by Dan Ballard and a brace from Alexander Isak.

There will, of course, be less tension when Newcastle visit Ewood Park, and the police operation won't be anywhere near as strict. But plenty is still on the line with a place in the quarter finals up for grabs.

Two games away from Wembley

Newcastle beat Fulham 2-0 away in the last round to set up a trip to Lancashire. If United can get past Blackburn then they'd stand just one game away from a semi-final at Wembley.

Tickets went on sale at 10am on Tuesday, February 6 to season ticket holders with 30 and above away points. Subject to availability, points will be reduced twice daily at 10am and 4pm, excluding weekends.