ROVERS defender Martin Taylor is hoping to play his way back into Graeme Souness's plans after turning down the chance of a trip to Dubai to get some games in with the reserves.

While the rest of his team-mates are currently soaking up the sun on a seven day break in the Middle East, Taylor braved the elements last night to play a key role in the reserve's 1-0 win over Bradford at Morecambe's Christie Park.

And, with Burnley next up at Ewood in 11 days time, the 21-year-old is hoping a couple of decent performances in the second string might improve his chances of a first team recall.

"I chose not to go to Dubai in the end because we've got a couple of reserve games and I haven't played for a while," said Taylor.

"I've had to settle for a place on the bench recently but, the way Henning and Shorty are playing at the minute, particularly at places like Birmingham, I can't really grumble about it.

"So every time I do get a chance, I need to show I'm ready to play.

"And, hopefully, a couple of decent performances in the reserves will do my cause no harm at all."

Ironically, Taylor's first real run in the first team began with an appearance in the 2-0 derby win at Turf Moor back in December.

But, more recently, he's had to settle for a place on the bench again. following the return to fitness of Craig Short.

However, with Rovers' set to face a daunting schedule of nine games in April, the classy centre back is sure to get another chance during the promotion run-in.

"That's a lot of games to play in a month and I'm sure the team will get changed around a bit so the manager can rest players or whatever," said Taylor.

"So, hopefully, I'll get a chance somewhere along the line.

"But, whatever happens, I'm pleased with the way the season has gone because it's been a big one for me, personally.

"At the start of the summer, I was hoping to play as much as possible in the first team.

"And I've had more games this season than I've ever had before."

Meanwhile, today's transfer deadline looked set to pass off quietly at Ewood.

A posse of scouts were at Morecambe last night -- including Rotherham boss Ronnie Moore -- to run the rule over Rovers youngsters like David McNamee and Burton O'Brien.

But, as yet, the club have not received a firm offer for either of the transfer-listed pair.

However, Rovers boss Graeme Souness may consider a swoop for unsettled Manchester United striker Jonathan Greening in the summer.

Souness has weighed up a move for the player in the past and he may be encouraged by the news that the England Under 21 international has now asked for a transfer.

Greening is frustrated he has been unable to win a regular place in the United senior squad three years after arriving at Old Trafford in a £1million move from York.

The 22-year-old midfielder made a rare start against Leicester on Saturday only to be substituted at half-time.

United's director of communications Paddy Harverson said: "He has asked for a transfer because he wants regular first-team football."

It is highly unlikely Greening will leave United before today's deadline expires.

It is more probable he will leave in the summer with the likes of Everton, Tottenham -- and possibly Rovers -- likely to head the queue for his services.

As we reported in later editions last night, Rovers' home game with Portsmouth on Saturday April 28 has now been put back 24 hours and will be screened live on Sky.