MIDFIELDER Vince Grella is itching to make up for lost time as Rovers prepare to enter their busiest phase of the season.

Tomorrow's clash with Stoke is the first of eight games in a month but, after missing a large chunk of the season with a succession of niggling injuries, Vinny is looking forward to a hectic Christmas schedule.

"For someone who has been watching too often it's a good thing," said the Aussie.

"I'm enjoying it here, I feel good, and to get through 90 minutes on Wednesday after six weeks out was very good.

"I was happy with myself (after the Bolton and Fulham games) so I now want to build on those performances."

Depending on results elsewhere, a win against Stoke tomorrow could see Rovers climb into the top of the table.

But although Ewood has become something of a fortress for Rovers since Sam Allardyce's appointment as manager, Vince has warned his team-mates they cannot afford to take anything for granted.

He added: "We've been hard to beat at home, we have the crowd behind us, and I think we've played some good football at Ewood, so we are looking forward to these games because we see them as an opportunity to get some points on the board.

"In saying that, it's going to be a difficult game because Stoke are doing well.

Tickets for Saturday's game are on open sale up until the 3.00pm kick-off. Prices are from £17 for Adults, £12 for Seniors 65 and over, £12 for Club 16-21 Members and just £7 for Juniors under 16. Book online and collect on the day of the game at www.onerovers.co.uk or call the ticket office on 0871 222 1444

"They are very well organised, they have a big team and a strong team, so it's going to be an awkward game for us."