Norwich City winger Anthony Pilkington has said that it would break his heart if Blackburn Rovers are relegated this season.
The 23-year-old was born just three miles from Ewood Park and spent a year on the club's books as a youth-team player before being released in 2006.
Rovers, who are currently 19th in the Premier League table, host Paul Lambert's men on Saturday.
After this weekend's game, the Lancashire club face trips to Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea in their final three fixtures, meaning that three points against the Canaries is a must.
Despite his sentimental ties to the club, Pilkington has vowed to leave emotion to one side.
He said: "It's going to be a massive day for me as we lived just three miles from the ground.
"But sentiment doesn't come into it at all.
"It would break my heart to see Blackburn relegated, but if I score the winner I'll be telling myself it's not my goal that has sent them down."
Pilkington has been Norwich's second-highest scorer this season with eight goals.
Robert Summerscales
