Arsenal fullback Gael Clichy says they proved at Sparta Prague this week that they won't be bullied in games.
Former West Ham defender Tomas Repka was keen to lead by example, having spoken on Czech TV in the build-up to the match about how best to get on top of Arsene Wenger's men.
"Maybe they think this is the way to play against Arsenal, however, we have to show that we are not the same team as before and are ready for the challenge," he declared.
"Everything is about mentality and we believe we have the quality in our football.
"We showed it against Sparta and will do it again [at Blackburn] on Sunday."
Clichy added: "We are waiting for the challenge and we are waiting for the teams to come.
Repka - who spent five seasons with the Hammers before returning to his homeland in January 2006 - took just two minutes to make his presence felt with a clattering challenge on Robin van Persie.
The 33-year-old was also involved in a clash with Fabregas, and was forced off before the break through injury.
Full-back Clichy revealed Arsenal were briefed to expect some rough treatment.
"We were ready - the boss warned us beforehand that they would come to try to kick us from the start," he said.
"Repka said it before the game, that they were waiting for us, to kick us and that is what they did. Fortunately we won.
"He [Repka] talked a lot about it before the game we saw it on TV, and then he got injured, which of course I am not happy about.
"But sometimes you have to play your best instead of talking. I hope it is not a big injury for him and that he will be back for the next game."
