ALAN Kelly should be fit for the start of the season despite being stretchered off during Rovers' 2-0 friendly victory over St Patrick's Athletic in Ireland on Saturday.

The Republic of Ireland international collapsed in a heap following a mid-air collision with Colm Foley after 71 minutes.

Kelly was knocked out by the challenge and, after a seven minute delay, he was carried off on a stretcher with a collar around his neck.

He was then taken by ambulance to a Dublin hospital but was later given the all-clear and allowed to leave yesterday.

"You always worry when you see players unconscious like that," said Souness.

"But Alan's fine now. It was just a bit of concussion."

Goals from Christian Dailly and Matt Jansen ensured Rovers finished their pre-season programme on a winning note.

And Souness declared himself happy with the way things have gone over the last six games as he prepares for Saturday's clash with Crystal Palace at Ewood Park.

"I've been pleased by the way things have gone," said Souness.

"The encouraging thing has been the way we have played rather than the results.

"I thought it was a good first half on Saturday but the game petered out a bit in the second period.

"Once we got our two goals they were keen to make sure we didn't get any more.

"But it was another good work-out for us."