ROVERS: I'll be there for Eyal says Lampard

EYAL Berkovic incensed Blackburn Rovers players and supporters with his histrionics at Upton Park 11 days ago.

Tonight, he will be aiming to upset them again by using more traditional skills to ensure it is Rovers' FA Cup hopes which take a dive.

And the Israeli international, along with his manager Harry Redknapp, has stirred up troubled waters even more by accusing some Rovers players of making racist remarks in the first clash.

Whatever their personal feelings about Berkovic's actions during and after the dismissal of Kevin Gallacher in the first tie, however, Rovers will have every respect for his ability as a footballer.

And team-mate Frank Lampard has promised to be there to look after him.

"It is my job - and Steve Lomas' - to protect Eyal and win the ball for him," said Lampard.

"There is no doubt the crowd will be on our backs but Steve and I will relish that kind of atmosphere. "It is not ideal for Eyal, but we must look after him so he can play his normal game."

Billy McKinlay and Tim Sherwood were both plainly angered by what they saw from Berkovic in the 2-2 draw.

But they will have to tread a fine line tonight, clamping down on his creative ability while remaining wary of being dragged into another confrontation.

The Israeli continues to protest his innocence.

"It will be a very hard game for us - particularly for me. But I really don't dive," he said.

"I am not the referee I have not made the decision to send him off. I don't want to see someone get sent off. I never acted. That is not my game."

Berkovic's strengths can be seen in our Carling Opta summary of his individual game.

His pass-completion rate is outstanding, he has made a high number of dribbles and his crossing is above average.

With six goals and five assists he represents a major threat, on his playing ability, to Rovers' hopes of making the last eight.

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