THE last time Blackburn Rovers met Arsenal in a cup competition, Benni McCarthy was the hero after he climbed off the bench to smash a wonderful injury-time winner.

But that stunning strike in the FA Cup last season may count for precious little when manager Mark Hughes comes to name his team to face the Gunners this evening. McCarthy is set to pay the price for a lethargic performance against Wigan Athletic at the weekend.

Hughes is thought to be concerned by the striker's recent work-rate and the signs are that he may be dropped tonight, with Matt Derbyshire given a rare chance to shine alongside Roque Santa Cruz.

"We look at performances, not only in games but in training as well," said Hughes.

"That shapes my view on whether players are ready to play in games or not.

"I will take a view from what I have seen, not just at the weekend but in recent weeks as well."

Hughes will ditch the 4-2-3-1 formation he has used in recent weeks for a more traditional 4-4-2 tonight.

After a first half performance he described as unacceptable' at the JJB Stadium on Saturday, Hughes spent most of yesterday emphasising the importance of getting in Arsenal's faces from the off tonight.