Blackburn Rovers vs Arsenal preview - Hoilett cleared for Arsenal test

Posted Saturday, September 17, 2011 by PA

Blackburn playmaker Junior Hoilett is fit for the Barclays Premier League clash against Arsenal at Ewood Park.

The Canada-born forward was concussed after a heavy collision with Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer last week.

Morten Gamst Pedersen (hamstring), David Dunn (calf) and Ryan Nelsen (knee) all face fitness tests.

Captain Chris Samba wants to make life a "living hell" for the Gunners.

Rovers are anxious to kick-start their campaign after failing to register a win in their opening four matches.

Steve Kean's men are bottom of the table with just one point and some disgruntled supporters are planning to stage a march to demand the manager's removal prior to this weekend's kick-off.

Yet Samba feels that is unnecessary as performances have deserved far better and he is convinced Rovers have the game to worry the Gunners.

The highly-rated Congo defender, who was linked with a move to Arsenal during the summer, said: "If you are a football player you shouldn't be scared of any team.

"It is a home game and it is up to us to make it a living hell for them when they come here. It is simple, we must to do our best to make sure they don't play as they want to, make it horrible for them."

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has every sympathy for the plight of under-fire Kean.

"It is hard for everybody, even for those who manage for 30 years," said Wenger, who transformed the Gunners since taking charge in September 1996.

"I just believe this job is difficult. Every who has been in it knows it, and how much depends on the situation you are in at the moment."

Wenger added: "I have a lot of sympathy for Steve Kean. He is a young manager and you want to give him time to do his job.

"A lot of time you complain the British managers do not get a chance and I can understand that but when they do get a chance you must give them time."

Arsenal will welcome back Alex Song and Gervinho from three-match bans but midfielder Aaron Ramsey faces a fitness test on an ankle injury.

Defender Carl Jenkinson is also available following a one-match suspension, but Tomas Rosicky (knee) and Ryo Miyaichi (calf) are doubts.

Midfielders Jack Wilshere and Abou Diaby (both ankle) are longer-term absentees.