More of the same is Sam´s wish

Sam Allardyce returns to former club Bolton on Sunday looking to continue Blackburn’s decent run of form in the Premier League.

Rovers have won four of their past six league matches and responded to the 7-1 hammering by Manchester United by thrashing Wolves 3-0 last week.

Allardyce, who delivered UEFA Cup football to the Reebok during his eight years in charge, admits Rovers’ impressive recent form gives him confidence ahead of his return to Bolton.

“If we win we go above them and that is some incentive for our lads ahead of what is a very big game,” he said.

“We go there in good form and high spirits but we are also aware that they have lost only three times all season.”

“We know the threat lies in the strikers, Kevin Davies and Johan Elmander, who have teens of goals between them so far.”

“You don’t need to be an experienced football manager to appreciate that we must keep close tabs on them.”

“We did the double over Wanderers last season although I was in hospital when we won at their place and we have a very good record there. Hopefully, that will continue on Sunday.”

Rovers have long-term injury casualty Martin Olsson back, but Allardyce seems likely to stick with the same 11 that beat Wolves last weekend. David Dunn, substituted against Wolves with a slight hamstring, has fully recovered.

Keith Andrews, Vince Grella and Steven Nzonzi all remain absent, but strikers Nikola Kalinic and Benjani are both now fully fit and challenging Jason Roberts for the lone striker berth.

Allardyce has been tipped as a possible England manager of the future by current incumbent Fabio Capello.

“That was very flattering for me, but two years is a long time ahead and it is much too early to start speculating,” he said.