CHARLTON will be backed by the biggest number of travelling supporters since the 1998 play-off final at Wembley when they attempt to revive their ailing Premiership survival chances at Blackburn this Saturday.

Manager Alan Pardew's rallying cry to the fans has been met with a huge response for what is being billed as the 'Party in the Park' at Ewood.

The Addicks' allocation of 7,500 tickets has mobilised support, with fans taking advantage of club-subsidised coach, rail and air travel.

Defender Ben Thatcher is likely to miss the match after sustaining a hip injury on Saturday in the 1-1 draw at The Valley with fellow strugglers Sheffield United.

Pardew insisted: "There is still all to play for with five clubs involved. We can take solace from the fact that we've been on a fantastic run of one defeat in eight games.

"I would think that we need one more win for sure. Who knows, that might be enough."

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