GIANFRANCO Zola is preparing his players for a physical battle against Blackburn Rovers this weekend.

The Hammers boss takes his depleted side to Ewood Park after last week's disappointing goalless draw with West Brom on Monday, and he is aware that the threat posed by Sam Allardyce's men will be 'dangerous' despite their lowly league position.

“Blackburn is a team that are very, very dangerous, especially because they have big, powerful players and will certainly play a physical game that will ask us questions,” said Zola.

“We are in a position where we can play this game and play with confidence and I'm sure it will be an interesting game.”