Jansen sets his sights on Europe

The former England Under 21 international inspired Rovers to a stunning 4-0 win over Arsenal courtesy of his first ever hat-trick in professional football.

And now Graeme Souness's men stand just three games away from a possible place in next season's UEFA Cup as they contemplate the prospect of appearing in the League Cup semi-finals for only the third time in the club's history.

"We're in the semi-finals and anything can happen now from here," said Jansen.

"Not only have we got the prospect of a trip to Cardiff at stake, there's also the incentive of a possible place in Europe up for grabs, too. Hopefully, we can avoid the London clubs in the next semis and either Sheffield Wednesday or Watford would be nice in the last four.

"But I don't see why we can't go all the way, whoever we play, because if we can beat Arsenal 4-0, then there's no reason for us to fear anyone."

Manager Graeme Souness was also thrilled with his side's performance as the Gunners slumped to their heaviest ever away defeat in the competition.

"I thought we played very well again, especially considering it was our second game in three days," said Souness.

"And the difference between last night and Sunday was we enjoyed that bit of luck in front of goal.

"Some of our finishing was clinical at times and it was a great evening for us.

"I know a big deal will be made of the fact they only played their second string, but their team was still filled with lots of good players and we won quite handsomely in the end.

"We passed it around well and created several other very good chances.

"But I think anyone who has seen us play at home this season would say that's been the story of our campaign so far.

"We just haven't always taken our chances like we did last night."

Souness was also particularly delighted to see Jansen back amongst the goals after the England hopeful has struggled to find the net in recent weeks.

"I'm pleased for Matt because he's not allowed his head to drop and he's continued to work very hard throughout his barren spell," said Souness. "Matt got a load of goals last year in the First Division and there were question marks about whether or not he could get them in the Premier League," said Souness.

"But at no time when he's not been scoring has he let his enthusiasm or willingness to work drop.

"So, hopefully, he'll gain a lot of confidence from this."

Now Rovers stand on the verge of their first major final in over 40 years but Souness remains totally focused on the task of Premiership survival.

"I think for the teams who get to the semi-final and final, the Worthington Cup becomes just as important as any other cup competition because, at the end of the day, it could mean you getting into Europe," said Souness.

"But right now, our priority is to stay in the Premier League and our next game up at Newcastle on Saturday is very important to us.

"They are flying at the moment and we'll have to go there and try and play as we did last night and show the same grit and determination.

"And, hopefully, we'll take our chances as we did last night as well."

Souness sprang a surprise last night when he handed Jeff Kenna his first start in over 12 months against the Gunners.

Kenna's last appearance for Rovers was almost a year ago to the day.

That was in the 0-0 draw with QPR on December 9, 2000.

But Souness was delighted with the way he slotted back in after recently returning from a spell on loan with Second Division Wigan.

"We toyed with going with three at the back with Stig still not quite right and Lucas Neill cup-tied," said Souness.

"But in the end, we decided against that and Jeff came in for his first game of the season and did very well."

Both Wigan and Luton are interested in signing the Republic of Ireland international on a free.

ROVERS must wait until Saturday lunch time to find out their opponents in the last four as the semi-final draw is due to take place live on ITV's 'On The Ball' with Gaby Logan and Barry Venison.