As he prepares to face the Magpies, Pompey defender Distin says he has no regrets about turning down a summer move to Newcastle

Having spent half a season with the Magpies in 2002 after moving from Paris St Germain he switched to Manchester City for the next four years - and was asked to return to St James' Park in July after agreeing terms on a free transfer to Pompey.

But the tough French defender says he rejected the opportunity from then-Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce and insists that like Redknapp - who was approached to become Newcastle boss in January - he has never regretted his decision to say no.

Distin, 30, has been a key figure in Portsmouth's best campaign in over 50 years. The FA Cup finalists are chasing UEFA Cup qualification on two fronts, with fifth place in the Premier League still on if Everton, four points in front of them, slip up.

The centre-back said: "Newcastle came for me in the summer. It was a bit last minute. Sam Allardyce went to Newcastle and I agreed to sign for Portsmouth. Then he came to me the day before I was supposed to sign.

"But apart from being a footballer I am a man. So I found it difficult to say no to Portsmouth and go to Newcastle instead. Once I made my mind up I was going to Portsmouth no matter who came in for me."

Distin has missed only two games all season - through injury - and typically excelled in last Saturday's Wembley win over West Brom and Tuesday night's Premier League win at West Ham.

"It's easy to say now, but I have always said I made the right choice," he said.

"Newcastle are in good form and it will be a tough game. They have won three in a row but when you have just finished a bad run like they have had you can, if you are put under pressure, return to that form.

"That is what we have do - put pressure on them. If we do that and keep focus on our league performances I'm sure things will be fine."

Jermaine Defoe looks certain to return against Newcastle. The cup-tied striker, after missing three of the last four games will attract England comparisons with Newcastle's in-form Michael Owen.

Redknapp has to decide whether Lassana Diarra's hamstring injury will allow him to return after missing two games with it before the FA Cup semi-final and must also check Milan Baros's ankle injury.

But John Utaka (hamstring) could be out again, leaving Redknapp a problem on the right side of midfield where 6ft 5ins Papa Bouba Diop admits he hates playing.

Lauren, unused substitute in the last two games, could be given a surprise chance.