Reds Aim To End Dismal Run At Ewood

United travel to Ewood Park to face Blackburn this weekend, intent on ending an unwanted winless run in visits to the Lancashire club.

It has been over eight years since United registered an away League win over Rovers; six games have passed since the Reds' 3-1 win in April 1998.

Although United did win in the 2003 League Cup semi-final at Ewood, Rovers' recent record against United is as good as anybody's. Last season they registered a first league double over the Reds in 75 years.

And, with no Carling Cup involvement this week, boss Mark Hughes has been thankful for the extra time to prepare his side for United's visit. "We're grateful for the free week, we have a big game at the weekend against Manchester United so we've a lot to mull over," he said.

United go into the game on the back of a Carling Cup upset at Championship strugglers Southend United. Sir Alex Ferguson, however, is relishing the chance to get back to winning ways.

"Defeat doesn't do anyone any harm, as long as they can improve from it and learn by it," he said. "We've had three defeats this season, all one-nils, so there's not a lot wrong and we'll be ready for Saturday."