Norwegian Brede Hangeland is set for a swift return to Fulham’s defence as Roy Hodgson’s side bid for their first away win since the opening day of the season. The centre back is fit again after a knee injury but leading scorer Bobby Zamora remains sidelined by a dislocated shoulder while Blackburn hope to have Vince Grella back in midfield as they chase their first league win since November.

Quick Check

Blackburn Rovers

  • Vince Grella is hoping to return after a three-week absence with a thigh injury.
  • Blackburn’s defeat against Fulham in November was their first in nine meetings against the London side.
  • Rovers are unbeaten at home against Fulham in the last five years.
  • Striker Jason Roberts is struggling to recover from a knee injury.
  • El Hadji Diouf is unavailable as he serves the final game of a three-match ban.
  • Blackburn have not won a game since November.
  • Rovers have not kept a clean sheet in their last seven fixtures.

Fulham

  • Norwegian star Brede Hangeland is expected to be passed fit after a recurrence of a knee problem.
  • Clint Dempsey scored twice in Fulham’s 3-0 win against Blackburn in November.
  • Bobby Zamora is facing lengthy lay-off after dislocating his shoulder.
  • Defender John Pantsil is sidelined by a long-term knee injury.
  • Midfielder Simon Davies is still sidelined by calf trouble.
  • Fulham have not won on the road since the opening game of the campaign at Portsmouth.
  • Dickson Etuhu is away on international duty at the African Cup of Nations.

Expert Advice

As well as Fulham have played at home over the last two months, they simply haven’t been able to replicate the form on their travels and boss Roy Hodgson will be keen for that to change as soon as possible. The rapid return to fitness of Brede Hangeland will be a massive bonus for the Cottagers and the return of Andy Johnson should help offset the loss of Bobby Zamora. Blackburn’s biggest problems of late have been in attack and Sam Allardyce will not be helped at the weekend by the absence of El-Hadji Diouf through suspension again. A low-scoring game looks in store and Betsson’s odds of 1.67 for there to be under 2.5 goals appears a sound bet.

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