Blackburn manager Mark Hughes accepts that his side's only hope of securing a place in Europe is through the FA Cup and not their league position.

Blackburn go into the showpiece game on the back of three successive defeats after losing 2-1 to Aston Villa at Ewood Park.

With only six games remaining they are now well off the pace in the Premiership for a UEFA Cup spot.

Hughes admitted: ''It is unrealistic to think we can do it through our league position.

''We could win every win every match but I suggest that is not likely to happen.''

He added: ''From a preparation point of view leading into cup semi final it has worked out really well for us.

''The downside is other teams around us could get ahead of us if they have a decent Easter.

''It may be more difficult to make up the gap.''

Asked if his side had one eye on Chelsea, Hughes said: ''I would suggest not.

"That would that take something any from the way Villa played.

''We did not ask enough questions of them. Too many guys allowed the game to pass them by and you cannot afford to do that in Premier League.''