John Eustace wants Blackburn Rovers to play with no fear against Newcastle United.

The Premier League Magpies travel to Ewood Park in the FA Cup fifth round on Tuesday night with more than 20,000 expected to be in attendance. The TV cameras will be in position too with the match live on BBC One.

Rovers have a history of upsetting Premier League opposition. Under Jon Dahl Tomasson, they knocked out West Ham and Leicester City in domestic cup competitions last season.

Whilst the Championship is Rovers' priority, with the team four points above the relegation zone, Eustace wants the team to use the FA Cup as a welcome distraction.

READ MORE: Newcastle United boss stresses importance of FA Cup tie

"I think it's a really exciting game, it's big for the fans, big for the players," Eustace said.

"They will be playing against top players in Europe. It's a really exciting night for the fans to really see a special night hopefully.

"The FA Cup is a special competition, we're looking forward to the night and playing one of the best sides in Europe, one of the best in the Premier League.

"They have fantastic players, it will be a big test. They're one of the best in Europe and the Premier League, so it will be a difficult game. 

"We have to concentrate on our own jobs, we have to enjoy the night first and foremost. There is no pressure on us, we want to go out and express ourselves, see where it takes us.

"We have to go and enjoy the night, the lads can't wait for the game. It gives the lads the opportunity to showcase what we can do."

Though Rovers haven't won any of Eustace's four official games in charge, there have been steady signs of improvement. Defensively, they have looked more solid, though least fluent in attack.

Eustace thinks that the occasion will see Rovers' players take the shackles off, with little expectation on the Championship team to win. Supporters will be more keen to see a competitive performance, than expectant of a dominant victory.

"I think the lads are very confident at the moment, we're doing ok in the league," Eustace said.

"The most important is that we are competitive, we showcase ourselves. We are making small steps in the right direction.

"I think tomorrow we can take the shackles off and play with freedom. We're playing a top side and it will be a great occasion.

"There will be over 20,000 fans at Ewood tomorrow. It's an exciting night. It gives us an opportunity to face a top team."