BLACKBURN Rovers striker Jon Stead has targeted the next three games as his big chance to win over Mark Hughes.

Jay Bothroyd's sending off at Norwich last weekend has opened the door for Stead to return against Manchester City on Saturday.

And the 21-year-old is desperate to impress his new boss while Bothroyd serves his three-match suspension.

Stead's scoring touch has deserted him so far this season which has resulted in him spending the last five games on the bench.

But the former Huddersfield hit-man, who was such a revelation for Rovers in the Premiership last term, believes he only needs a goal to get his season and up and running.

With Bothroyd a definite absentee for the trip to the City of Manchester Stadium, Stead looks set to partner Paul Dickov in attack.

And although the England Under 21 international has yet to find the net in any of Rovers' 12 Premiership games so far, he wouldn't be fazed by the prospect of facing City if Hughes decides to hand him a recall.

"I'm delighted I could have a chance (for the weekend)," said the striker.

"I'm obviously not delighted for Jay, but I should have three games to get a chance to cement my place and score some goals.

"It has been frustrating being on the bench. I didn't feel I needed it and I want to be playing as often as I can.

"But, at the end of the day, I have not been scoring goals and that was the manager's decision.

"As soon as I get a goal I will be fine."

Despite his failings in front of goal this season, Stead has managed to stay positive throughout his 13-game drought.

And he was particularly heartened by the warm reception he received on his last appearance at Ewood, when he came close to scoring with a thunderous shot against Liverpool.

Stead said: "I was delighted the fans recognised I am working hard and doing my best to get back on track.

"It is funny how you can go from being the fans' saviour to someone who some think should be in the reserves, but the ones who have stuck by me have been fantastic.

"I want to do well for Blackburn and score goals for years to come. I know I can do it."

In the meantime, Rovers will head for Manchester looking to record their first away win of the season.

They managed to pick up their first point on the road at Norwich last weekend and a gutsy second half performance, in which they fought back from a goal down to claim a draw with 10-men, has given everyone in the camp a lift.

"The character we showed last week was brilliant," Stead added.

"Everybody stuck together. It was a really gusty performance and that's what we need.

"I am sure we can take that on on Saturday now."

Neil Danns has returned to the club following a two-month loan at Colchester.