Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp celebrated his first away win in the Premiership for 12 games as the South Coast outfit ran out comfortable 1-0 winners at Blackburn.

Apart from the first 15 minutes when Blackburn hit the woodwork Portsmouth always looked the likely winners once Kanu had given them a 23rd minute lead and only their second win at Ewood Park in 13 Premier League clashes.

In fact Pompey had chances to increase their lead on the break a couple of times but despite four minutes of added time the Nigerian's 50th League goal was enough to clinch all three points.

The Pompey chief was delighted with the way his team defended and controlled the game.

"This is a tough place to come and the first thing you have to do is compete with them otherwise you have no chance.

"But now we are a strong looking team with power and a back four that I wouldn't swap for any other in the country. In midfield we are strong and look a different team now.

"The big fellow up front (Kanu) is key for us and all important. He's the one guy who can hold the ball up and bring other player's into play. He's a special player and can score goals.

Redknapp then admitted Kanu nearly did not play due to an injury sustained in training.

"His knee was sore from a wack on the knee in training yesterday morning.

He was struggling a bit in the kickabout and when he came in the physio felt if he played we might lose him for a couple of weeks but the big man wanted to give it a go.

"Lucky he did in the end!"