SIMON Grayson is set to start the new season this weekend following an 11th hour bid from Sheffield Wednesday to sign the Rovers full-back on loan.

Grayson is surplus to requirements at Ewood Park and has been made available over the summer by Graeme Souness.

And with the opening fixtures just a day away, Owls boss Paul Jewell has moved to recruit Grayson in time for Wednesday's clash at Wolves on Sunday.

Jewell is keen to complete the signing by the 5pm deadline with Rovers approving the move which could lead to a permanent deal if the former Leicester and Aston Villa defender, who moved to Ewood for £1 million a year ago, impresses.