THE Steve Harkness saga could be ready to roll again, with Blackburn Rovers believed to be on the point of stepping up their previously lukewarm interest in the Benfica defender.

Harkness has been looking for the exit door at the Stadium of Light since the end of last season and Portuguese sources claimed today that Rovers were finally serious runners in the race for his signature.

There has been much speculation over the former Liverpool defender's future, including a report that Benfica wanted to loan him to another Portuguese club. But that could change quickly if Rovers have decided to follow up their initial inquiries - made as long ago as the beginning of the summer. It appears that it has not been a question of haggling over a transfer fee for the player, especially as the sum involved would hardly break the Ewood bank.

A more likely reason for the delay in anything happening is that Rovers wanted to consider all their options before making a decision on whether he was the right man for them.

Earlier this month, we revealed that the club refused to close the door on a Harkness bid, even though the situation had dragged on for months and was showing few signs of being resolved.

Manager Brian Kidd has already made a significant change to his squad this week, with the signing of Egil Ostenstad to replace Kevin Davies. Another addition to the defensive ranks, with someone like left-back Harkness, would be equally welcome as Rovers attempt to get their season going following two disappointing opening matches.

For Kidd is also anxious to try to find keeper Alan Fettis a new club following Alan Kelly's arrival.

The Rovers boss admitted he was "amazed" that there had not been any interest from other clubs in the Northern Ireland international.

"I have a lot of sympathy for Alan and he is a super pro and a very good goalkeeper," said Kidd.

"He has been working really well in training and we are trying to help him to get sorted out."

Fettis, who was signed by Rovers for £300,000 from Nottingham Forest two years ago, has lost his place in the Northern Ireland squad because of his lack of first team football at Ewood.

The Reserves kicked off their new season with a 3-0 win at Barnsley last night and Nathan Blake, Jeff Kenna and David Dunn all enjoyed some match action before being substituted.

Coach Terry Darracott reported no injury problems.

Keith Gillespie replaced Mark Kennedy during the second half of Northern Ireland's 1-0 defeat by world champions France in Belfast last night.

The Ewood ticket office will stay open until 7pm tomorrow night for sales of tickets for Saturday's home game against Barnsley.

Buying tickets in advance helps fans to avoid congestion on the day of the game.

Ewood Blues ISG are running a coach to Norwich on Saturday week, cost £16 members, £18 non-members. For bookings contact the Aqueduct, Mark or Alan.

Match tickets are on open sale at Ewood, price £20 adults, £12 juniors and senior citizens and £5 for under-12s.

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