Match Preview

Fulham v Blackburn Rovers Preview

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Isn`t it strange how things turn out? Last week Mark Hughes took on Manchester City (a), a team he`d formerly managed, this week we welcome Blackburn Rovers to Craven Cottage, another team Mark has managed. Fulham will be hoping to continue a recent run that has seen them, almost, shrug off the threat of relegation, although we mustn`t get complacent and a win tomorrow would come in very handy.

Vital Quotes:

Although he use dot wear the blue and white shirts of Blackburn Rovers, Damien Duff has no intention of giving anything other than 100% and has given a few quotes relating to his time there, explaining,

‘I left Ireland at 16 and went on to have seven or eight very happy years at Ewood Park.’

‘There were some good times, notably the League Cup win in 2002.”

‘They’re a good side like ourselves, one that should be higher up the league table.”

‘I may still look for their results, but these days I am Fulham through and through.’

Fulham Team News:

Mark Hughes has three of his squad not available for selection due to injury, they are Diomansy Kamara, Philippe Senderos and Steve Sidwell.

Last time out, a twisted ankle kept Bobby Zamora out of contention, against Manchester City. The Craven Cottage faithful will be hoping that Bobby has shaken off that knock and is in contention for a place this Saturday.

Player to watch: Damien Duff

Man of the match last weekend and no doubt Damien will be hoping to put on a good show against one of his former clubs, indeed the club where he first sprang to prominence.

Blackburn Rovers Team News:

Steve Kean, the surprise choice as manager after Sam Allardyce was sacked, brings his squad to London with Ryan Nelsen suspended and several injured. David Dunn, who can control a game when on form, is injured as are Phil Jones and Formica.

Rated as doubtful are Hoilett and Santa Cruz.

Player to watch: Paul Robinson

One of the best keepers in the Premier League and a stopper who can frustrate many a team.

Match Facts & Stats

When it comes to recent fixtures Blackburn have the Indian sign over us. Although we won, comfortably, 3-0 last season, the previous eight fixtures between the two sides had seen Blackburn remain unbeaten winning four and drawing four.

If you are looking for a first scorer, look no further than Clint Dempsey who has mustered four goals in his last four games against Blackburn.

Blackburn`s current away form is poor with Rovers having lost their last four letting in thirteen goals in the process.

Mark Hughes has a good record since leaving Blackburn and playing against them, winning two and drawing two.

Ref Watch:

Our man in the middle is Mark Clattenburg who will be assisted by Peter Kirkup, Martin Yerby and as fourth official Mick Russell.

Match Prediction:

A home win for me and a chance to ease further away from that heartbreak zone at the foot of the table. I`ll go for 3-1.

Next Fixtures:

Our next match is away to Everton on March 19th.

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