Top trainer Freddie Roach is keen to see Amir Khan come through Saturday night's clash with Dmitriy Salita safe and sound for more than just one reason.

The British star will defend his WBA light-welterweight title for the first time in Newcastle as he bids to continue his rapid progress under the American handler.

But as well as protecting his own status as one of the world's hottest prospects, Roach wants Khan to play a key role in Manny Pacquiao's preparations for a proposed showdown with Floyd Mayweather next autumn.

"It looks like the Mayweather fight will go ahead in September, that's what Bob (Arum) tells me and I think it's a done deal," Roach told Sky Sports News.

"Amir will be my chief sparring partner (for Pacquiao) for that fight because Mayweather's quick like Amir and they have a similar style and similar qualities, so he will definitely get Manny ready for that fight."

Khan is a top-priced 1/6 with Betfred to beat New York-based Ukrainian Salita in Newcastle, 10/11 at bet365 to get the job done inside the distance and 2/1 with Sky Bet to prevail on points.

And the Bolton fighter says Roach and Co are buzzing following Pacquiao's 12th round stoppage win against Miguel Cotto, a victory which strengthens his claim to be pound-for-pound No 1.

"I've worked with Manny for the last year or so and I have learnt so much from him," said Khan.

"For me, he is definitely the best fighter in the world at the moment and just watching him in the gym, let alone when he is fighting, is an inspiration.

"I was ringside at the MGM Grand and seeing Pacquiao's performance up close makes me want to train even harder and get to the level he is at right now."

Pacquiao can be backed at 11/8 with Betfred to come out on top against Mayweather, who is 4/6 at best with bet365 to preserve his 100 per cent record in that bout if it comes off.