That's the view of boss Sean O'Driscoll in the aftermath of the experienced striker's initial action in Rovers colours.

Byfield, who suffered a groin injury in his first training session after joining the club from Bristol City, got on for the final 10 minutes of last Saturday's win over Coventry.

Then in midweek he was on target as a Rovers side won 3-2 in a private friendly at Leeds.

"It was only a brief glimpse of Darren last week but he gave people an idea of what he's about," said O'Driscoll.

"He's done it at this level and he has pace and experience and he has a key role to play here with what he offers us.

"It was good to see him score in midweek and he'll be pushing hard for a place."

O'Driscoll and assistant Richard O'Kelly will take in a game today as Rovers sit out international weekend before restarting at Championship leaders Birmingham City next Saturday.

n Meanwhile, former Rovers boss Steve Beaglehole is involved this weekend.

He is manager of the Northern Ireland U21 side who played Germany last night in their UEFA U21 European Championship qualifier.

Beaglehole, now a coach at Leicester City, says he judges all the players the same whether they are from Manchester United or the Institute.

Beaglehole hopes this philosophy will have long-term benefits not just for the confidence of the squad but for the province as a whole.

"I do not care if a boy is playing for Manchester United or Institute," he said. "If the boy from Institute is doing the business he will get in ahead of the boy from Manchester United. Lots of times a wee bit of luck gets you where you are."

"Of course it would be fantastic if we were to go on and qualify," added Beaglehole, "however, we have a two-year plan and need to look further forward. We are looking at the bigger picture."

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