MARK Allen's dazzling debut has given Bromsgrove Rovers boss George Rooney cause for optimism in a bleak week which saw James Dyson break his leg.

The Birmingham City loan player starred in Monday's 3-1 League Cup win at Cinderford and Rooney has the midfielder pencilled in to replace Dyson who is out for the rest of the season.

Rovers entertain Gresley Rovers in the Dr Martens Western Division tomorrow (3pm) and Rooney admits he could be tempted to start with the 19-year-old.

"He looked exceptional," said Rooney. "We have to weigh up the fact that Cinderford are bottom of the league but the boy is a good passer and ultimately, if he remains with us, could be the player to replace James Dyson."

Rooney meanwhile has a difficult choice between Steve Frost and Dave Benton to play alongside Steve Pope in the centre of defence but Frost looks favourite to get the shirt.

"Before the last five or six games Dave would have got the nod over Dave but Steve has done really well and comes up with the important goal now and then so I'm edging towards Frost," said Rooney.

Rovers, who visit Tiverton in the league cup on Monday, should have forward Paul Szewczyk available despite a bruised calf but Ryan Mahon (ankle) is a doubt.