Matt Harrold is looking forward to the chance to prove himself to new Bristol Rovers boss Mark McGhee.

The big target man has already become a favourite with the fans and remains the side's top scorer with 11 goals – despite missing the last month with an ankle injury.

Harrold would have been included in the squad for today's game at Aldershot – only for the clash to be called off yesterday afternoon because of a frozen pitch.

The Hampshire club had covered the playing surface earlier in the week, but parts of it were deemed to be unplayable after an inspection by a referee.

It means Harrold will have a full week in training to prepare for next weekend's home game against Morecambe.

"It will feel good to be back – I've been out for a month, so I just hope I'm not too rusty," said Harrold.

"It's one of the longest spells I've ever had out because I've been quite lucky with injuries in the past, although the last ten days or so have dragged. I'm sick of the sight of the rowing machine!"

Harrold was expected to be named among the substitutes had the Aldershot game survived the sub-zero temperatures, but will now be pushing for a starting place against the Shrimps.

"I'd have expected to be on the bench, but you never know because the squad is quite stretched at the moment in terms of injuries," he said.

"I told the gaffer I was the fittest bloke at the club – but I only meant it as a joke and I think he took me seriously!

"I've worked hard in the gym while I've been out, but there's nothing like training or actually playing, so I'm looking forward to the chance to prove myself again.

"I've had an okay season, but I know I can still play better. Hopefully I can keep scoring a few goals and get to a decent total at the end of it."

Despite Harrold's absence, Rovers' form has turned around in recent weeks and they will look to complete a double over Morecambe, having taken ten points from 12 during a four game unbeaten run.

"Everyone is happy. We've talked about getting back-to-back wins all season and now we've finally done it," said Harrold.

"There's a feel-good factor around the place at the moment that maybe we've not had since the start of the season. It's good.

"Coming back in when there's a positive mindset and things are going well is a big thing. You have to bear in mind the fact we have had a lot of injuries, but have still picked up two great results in our last two games, so things are looking a lot brighter.

"But at the same time we have to remember it is only two games and we can't get too far ahead of ourselves.

"Football can quickly change if you don't keep working hard and doing the right things.

"The fans deserve what's happening now because they stuck with the players through a lot of bad results, so hopefully they are enjoying things now," said Harrold.

Today's enforced break could offer other players the chance to be back in contention for the Morecambe game, with defender Danny Woodards and winger Mustapha Carayol both hoping to be fit again after picking up injuries.