STEVEN Reid returns to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday warning Albion to avoid an Ewood Park backlash.

Reid made 125 appearances for Rovers during his injury-hit, seven-year spell at the club before his move to Albion in the summer of 2010.

He returns for the first time this weekend – he missed last season’s game through injury – against the backdrop of growing unrest at Blackburn, not least against the club’s owners and manager Steve Kean.

But Reid believes Albion need to be wary.

“I think the Blackburn players will try to use it to their advantage,” said the Republic of Ireland international.

“They will want to stick together and I know they’re behind the manager, so it’s a dangerous time to be playing up there.

“I am a little bit surprised they’re struggling but it’s a transitional period with the new owners and Steve Kean going in there.

“They beat Arsenal at home and they can get results.

“The fans are having a go and aren’t happy with what’s going on but I know for a fact the players are behind the manager and it’s going to be a tough place to go.

“When I played there teams didn’t like going there and it’s going to be difficult for us next weekend.

“I am looking forward to it. I have good memories of being there but it would be nice to get three points on the board, then after that it’s Newcastle.

“I hope I’ll get a good reception but with the position they are in the table and with what’s going on up there you never know.