Steve Elliott is hoping his return to Bristol Rovers' starting line-up will be more than a temporary measure, writes Chris Swift.

The big defender, hit by injury at the start of the season, has had to wait patiently while Danny Coles and Byron Anthony have forged a partnership over the opening games of the campaign.

But with Coles sidelined by illness last weekend, Elliott made his first league appearance of the season – with Bristol Rovers boss Paul Trollope absolving him of blame for the Roots Hall reverse.

Now the experienced centre-back has his fingers crossed that he will retain his place for Saturday's home game against Yeovil Town.

"It was a disappointing result at Southend – but, from a personal point of view, it was great to be back in the starting line-up," said Elliott.

"My fitness was bang on and I felt fine throughout the game. At least at the end of it I could reflect that I was fit and could do the job.

"Hopefully I will have helped to have given the manager a bit of a dilemma ahead of the Yeovil game, and we'll see how things go over the rest of the week."

Elliott has been a regular first-choice since joining Rovers from Blackpool five years ago and is only two games short of his 200th league appearance for the club.

Although he admits it has been difficult watching from the sidelines this term, Trollope has praised the former Derby County player's attitude while he has been out of the side.

"Since I was at Blackpool I've played regularly, so this season has been strange," said Elliott. "I was unfortunate with injuries at the start of it, but now I'm fit hopefully I can stake a claim for a place.

"It's been hard sitting on the bench watching the games and it's an odd feeling after four or five years of playing more or less constantly.

"But motivating myself in training is easy. Being a professional footballer is the best job in the world and if you don't enjoy training, then you are not in the right job. I love it.

"The Yeovil game is also a local derby and it's not difficult to get yourself up for it."

Trollope said: "We know Steve is an experienced campaigner and he has shown an exemplary attitude while he has been frustrated and out of the team.

"The defeat at Southend was certainly not down to him. He has staked his claim and thrown his hat into the ring."

Rovers have given formal permission for striker Sean Rigg to play for Forest Green Rovers in this week's FA Cup clash at Mangotsfield United.

Rovers and Forest Green are also in talks to extend the loan of Rigg for the maximum period allowed, which would allow him to stay at the New Lawn up to and including Saturday, November 21.