Mowbray warns Blackburn Rovers not to underestimate Cardiff

After a three-week break from international duty, and even longer away from home soil, Mowbray is looking forward to being back in front of the Rovers supporters.

But he expects a stern test from Championship newcomers Cardiff, and feels patience may be required on and off the pitch.

"They've got good players, very well coached, play a very similar shape to what Wolverhampton play, with one six and two eights," said the Rovers boss.

"It's going to be a challenge for us, but one I think hopefully we can come out on top of."

While Cardiff have won only once this season, their underlying numbers have caught Mowbray's attention.

The Bluebirds have averaged around 65 per cent possession across their opening eight matches and rank among the division's leading sides for shots, highlighting the threat they carry despite their league position.

"They play with a lot of confidence, they have a lot of the ball," Mowbray continued.

"So don't be too alarmed if you come to the game at the weekend and Cardiff are passing around in midfield and at the back.

"I'm just trying to paint a picture for our fans. They're a decent football team, we have to recognise that."

Mowbray insists Rovers have prepared for what Cardiff will bring and believes the outcome will be decided by quality in the key moments rather than possession statistics.

"Millwall had more possession than us, to be honest, and we beat them 3-1," he said.

"In my mind, it's not about the possession, it's about the quality in the final third, in the penalty areas and making the right runs and having the right quality with the final passes and the finish."

With trips to Bristol City and West Brom to come next week, Mowbray is keen for Rovers to lay down a marker at home.

He added: "It's a tough run of games for us, but let's start that run of games off with three points if we can."