Mikael Forssell and James McFadden to lead the line against Newcastle

Mar 17 2008 By Colin Tattum

MIKAEL Forssell and James McFadden will tonight again get another chance to carry the attack for Blues.

And manager Alex McLeish has challenged them to keep their partnership intact for the remainder of the season.

They first impressed at West Ham United before a reshuffle caused by Martin Taylor's sending -off when Arsenal visited St Andrew's meant Forssell was substituted early on.

After the Spurs game, when Forssell notched a hat-trick on two assists from McFadden, McLeish's mind was firmly made up.

Then McFadden was held back as a substitute at Portsmouth due to his wife giving birth to a daughter, Emily, in the early hours of Wednesday.

"We have searched for a partnership since coming in," said McLeish.

"When we arrived it was one up front. We tried to change that gradually and getting the right partnership was important.

"Forssell has got plenty of Premier League experience and has the art of scoring.

"With McFadden, I believe that looks the most experienced partnership for us.

"In recent games, playing together, they have shown their worth and forged a good understanding.

"It's up to them to take on that responsibility and show that experience."

Newcastle United make a change tonight by bringing back Mark Viduka, who has yet to start under new boss Kevin Keegan due to injury.

Newcastle are mindful of Viduka's record against Blues - seven goals in fours season for Leeds United and Middlesbrough.

Joey Barton is also available again, but James Milner (foot) is out and for Blues Olivier Kapo (hamstring) remains sidelined.