ROVERS keeper John Filan was heading for Stoke today to start a one-month loan spell with the Second Division club.

City are currently in the throes of an injury crisis and they have turned to the Australian international as the man to bridge the gap.

The arrangement is unlikely to become permanent but the 31-year-old has welcomed the opportunity to put himself in the shop window.

"I just want to get back playing competitive football again and this is an excellent opportunity," said Filan.

"Stoke have a few injury problems at the minute and they were looking for some experienced cover so it works out well for both parties.

"I don't think anything permament will come of it and, to be honest, I've not even thought about that.

"After training all the time, I just want to get back playing now and show what I can do."

Filan recently asked to be put on the trasnfer list at Ewood after failing to command a regular first team place at Rovers following the arrival of Brad Friedel.