Assistant manager Neil McDonald says Blackburn Rovers have worked hard to iron out the mistakes which proved so damaging against Chelsea in their 5-0 league thrashing at Stamford Bridge.

McDonald said: “I think we can defend, keep our shape and concentrate a little bit better, so we’ve worked on all of that in training.

"We’ve had a couple of clean sheets and victories since then. Confidence is back and we’re looking forward to the game,” said Sam Allardyce’s right hand man, who will take charge of the side for what is expected to be the final time, with the Rovers boss due to return to work by the end of the week following heart surgery.

“When you get a team that can pass and move and create chances and put the ball in the back of the net it’s always going to be a little bit difficult, and that’s what we face (tonight).

“But nobody likes getting beat, especially 5-0. Yes we have a point to prove, but at the same time Chelsea won’t be looking forward to coming to play us because our home form is great.

“It’s going to be very difficult for them and they’re going to have to be at the top of their game.

"Whichever team they play they’re going to have to play well because we play well at home, we get at teams, we score goals - apart from Saturday.

"We’re on form at home and Chelsea are going to have to be on their guard to get through themselves.

“They’re an excellent team of course - whichever team they play they’ll be strong - so we have to stand up and be counted better than what we did away from home.”

And McDonald spoke about the significance of the home support as they bid to move a step closer to Wembley.

“Since Sam and myself came to the club we’ve had great support off the home fans; they get behind the players and I think results have shown that,” he continued.

“It’s a masterstroke from the club directors to take Ewood back, ie having the crowd all around the ground.

“Our home form is excellent and we’ve got to continue that, whether it’s Chelsea or whoever we play.”