Neill relishing return

Neill wants to beat his old club

Last updated: 8th December 2007

neill lucas west ham

Neill: Focussed

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West Ham's Lucas Neill is concentrating on gaining all three points when he travels to Ewood Park to face old team Blackburn on Sunday.

Neill was "disgusted" with the reaction of Rovers' fans on his last visit, which saw the Hammers win 2-1 in March to help them beat the drop.

Despite serving five-and-a-half years at Blackburn, Neill is sure to get a tasty reception again in this game, which is being shown live on Sky Sports 1.

Looking forward to the match, a focused Neill said: "Last year saw us start our fantastic run at my former club and nothing but a win will do this weekend.

Pleasure

"They're a very organised and fit outfit and I have great respect for Mark Hughes and his team but there will be no greater pleasure than matching them for their work-rate and taking the spoils."

Blackburn player and fellow Australian Brett Emerton hopes Neill will receive a better reception at Ewood Park this time around.

Emerton said: "Obviously, Lucas spent many good years at the club so it is going to be an interesting return for him.

"I don't think there will be the same reaction as last time. I think that was a little bit harsh because obviously Lucas was here for many years and he gave 100 per cent for the club each and every time he stepped out on the pitch. Hopefully they will give him a warmer welcome this time around.

Boos

"Last time he got more boos than Robbie Savage and that doesn't happen very often! Lucas is a strong character and I don't think he will let it upset him too much.

"It is going to be a very important game for us, you can call it a six-pointer even at this stage of the season because these are the teams we need to beat if we are going to finish in the European qualifying places."