Hammers prepare for Rovers battle

Last meeting: West Ham 0-0 Blackburn (30-01-10) These two sides have failed to manage a goal between them in the last 180 minutes against each other. West Ham have not lost on their last four trips to Ewood Park.

Opposition: Blackburn's defence prefer playing in front of their own fans. They have conceded just six goals on home turf – the joint-third best record in the Premier League – although they have shipped a whopping 21 in nine games on the road. Ominously, Rovers have won their last three home games.

Danger men: The devilish left boot of Morten Gamst Pedersen has troubled many a Premier League defence already this season. The creative presence of David Dunn in midfield could cause West Ham problems, with Jason Roberts and El Hadji Diouf willing runners in attack.

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