On paper it should be a straightforward three points when West Ham entertain struggling Cardiff City on Sunday.

The Bluebirds languish just five points above the relegation zone, while their shot-shy forwards have hit a meagre 33 goals to date.

Indeed, they have failed to score in 12 of their 30 games so far, suggesting a team which can be brushed aside with an early goal.

But Hammers manager Alan Pardew is wary of taking the Bluebirds too lightly, especially after seeing his team suffer a 4-1 drubbing at Ninian Park in November.

That was the heaviest defeat of the season, and Pardew is determined to prove the lessons have been learned.

"They're a tough team and they normally play with two big targetmen," he said.

"We have to be strong defensively and make sure we keep them quiet.

"We've got to be strong all over the pitch.

"If we can play like we did in the first half of the game against Sheffield United last week, and sustain that for all the match, then I feel we can get a good result.

"We want to get a win and a good performance on Sunday, but we're also looking for that little break or bit of luck that might help us and give us that lift we need."