WEST Ham boss Sam Allardyce has admitted his interest in signing Blackburn Rovers full back Martin Olsson – should the Swede become available.

Allardyce, who worked with Olsson during his tenure at Ewood Park, is chasing a left back with Joey O’Brien and George McCartney both picking up injuries.

And he admits he would relish the opportunity to work with Olsson, who handed in a transfer request in the summer but has since played a large part in Rovers’ season.

“If they have made Martin available I would definitely be interested because I worked with the lad at Blackburn when I was there,” said Allardyce. “I had a good time developing him into what I consider to be quite a good player.

“But whether Blackburn are wanting to sell anybody I don’t know.”