SAM Allardyce has challenged goalkeeper Jason Brown to take his first team chance with both hands as he prepares to throw him in at the deep end against Chelsea at Ewood Park on Sunday.

Rovers were dealt a major blow with the news that first choice stopper Paul Robinson would be out of action for up to a month, but Sam believes that Brown will rise to the occasion.

"Jason has been waiting patiently and his record has been very good when he has stepped in," said the Rovers' boss.

"He's not played that often, but we have found some first team football for him in the cup competitions and he has done well.

"He played a massive part in getting us through to the semi-finals of the Carling Cup with some great displays in those early stages, so hopefully that will stand him in good stead now.

"So now we hope Jason will step up to the plate and give us some consistent performances while Paul is out injured.

"Let's hope that when Paul gets fit that I find it difficult to leave Jason out.

"We have also brought Mark Bunn back from Sheffield United. He has been having a very good season with them, so we think that we have got enough strength and depth to cover that position."

Tickets for Sunday's game will be on sale right up until the 4.00pm kick-off.