BLACKBURN-born QPR boss Gareth Ainsworth is hoping to wipe the smile off Owen Coyle’s face as the Clarets face their second West London appointment of the week.

The former Rovers trainee, who took over as caretaker manager at Loftus Road after Iain Dowie was sacked in October, put up a good showing despite losing 1-0 at Manchester United.

And Ainsworth, who attended St Augustine’s in Billington, said he always relished facing the Clarets.

He said: “Being a Blackburn lad and being at QPR for six years, I have blue and white blood flowing through my veins.

“I always look forward to playing Burnley. I’ve scored a few goals against them in the past and there’s always a bit of banter present.

“So I don’t expect it to be any different as a manager. I’m hoping to be able to drive home on Saturday night with a satisfied smile on my face.

“As long as QPR do well and Rovers are winning in the Premier League, I’ll be happy.”

The 35-year-old has had a promising start to his fledgling career with two wins, two defeats - one against Manchester United - and a draw.

But he knows it will be a tough assignment against the Clarets, who famously beat their West London rivals Cheleas in midweek.

Ainsworth added: “I had scouts at Chelsea and I’ve watched the game so we know it will be a tough afternoon.

“There are no real favourites. We’re at home and just outside the top six and they’re coming off a fantastic win and are in the top six.

“So it promises to be a good game of football.

“We’ve had some good results since I’ve been in charged and it’s all credit to the players because they’ve been very professional.

“I was thrown in at the deep end a bit but the boys know someone has to be in charge and they’ve really helped me out.

“I’m just keeping my head down and hoping to get good results for QPR.”