ROBBIE Blake expects to be branded public enemy number one at Turf Moor tomorrow lunchtime.

But the former Burnley striker will be well prepared for any supporter backlash over his shock decision to quit the club earlier this year.

And he insisted he will not be celebrating if he scores a goal for Leeds against the club where he was once hailed as a hero.

Blake, who could partner former Clarets team mate Ian Moore in the United attack following an Elland Road striker crisis, said: "I think I might need to bring my tin hat and I'm expecting quite a bit of stick because I said I wanted to leave. But that was all about trying to better myself and not walking away.

"Obviously Wigan were the first team that came in for me and I think it angered a lot of fans that I wanted to go there in the first place.

"If it had been Birmingham I don't think the reaction would have been so hostile, but then again maybe if Wigan hadn't made the first move, Birmingham might not have followed, so I can't really have any regrets."

Blake, who joined Leeds for an initial £800,000 this summer to pave the way for Birmingham to sign Walter Pandiani, added: "I had a fantastic time at Burnley and their result is still the first I look for.

"I wish them all the best and although I can understand their frustration at a player wanting to leave, I just hope the fans understand that I felt I had to take the opportunity when it came up.

"I think the ideal result for me now would be for Leeds to win and me not to score. I have a job to do, but even if I score I won't be celebrating. it just wouldn't seem right."

The possibility of Blake partnering Moore in attack - with first choice Leeds duo Rob Hulse and David Healy both nursing knocks - has added more spice to a Roses clash that seems certain to attract Burnley's biggest gate of the season.

And Clarets boss Steve Cotterill, who has virtually a full strength squad to choose from, has again urged supporters to turn up the noise and drive the team on to a third successive Championship victory.

He insisted: "Leeds is a big game for us and for our supporters and it's absolutely vital they are right behind the lads (from the) first header and first tackle again, just as they were against Ipswich.

"I thought there was a little turning point that night with the supporters, and the lads commented after the game how good the crowd were.

"I've even heard that some supporters are moaning at themselves sometimes for being a bit quiet around the place, but there's not any moans or groans from us, it's just that when they're up for it, it doesn't half make our jobs easier."

Fans are again reminded that kick off tomorrow is 12.30pm.