TRANMERE Rovers player-manager John Aldridge has totally dismissed newspaper speculation linking him with the vacant West Bromwich Albion manager's job. "I want to get this club into the Premiership!" was his single-minded response to the speculation, which originated from sources in the Midlands (writes Steve Hunter).

Mr Aldridge told me: "I haven't heard anything from West Bromwich Albion at all. I'm just learning my trade in management and want to do my best for Tranmere Rovers. This is my club first and foremost and I have no intention of leaving!"

His immediate priority is Tranmere's trip to London to face Charlton Athletic at The Valley on Friday evening (kick-off 7.45pm). The match, which was scheduled for live coverage by SKY TV, has been snubbed in favour of Stoke City v Oxford United!

Rovers, who have hauled themselves back to the edge of the Play-offs zone, must build on two encouraging home displays against Norwich and Reading, if they want to break into a top six place.

A crowd of 5,891 was at Prenton Park, last Tuesday night, for Rovers' best display of the season - a 3-1 success against Norwich City. But what a pity the supporters couldn't see it due to a blanket of dense fog!

Darren Eadie scored after 80 seconds, but two goals from a rejuvenated Paul Cook and an Ian Moore effort were the highlight of an evening when spot the player or spot the ball was more appropriate.

Rovers' 2-2 Prenton Park draw with Reading, in front of 6,019 supporters, on Saturday, was a major disappointment against a side with the worst away record in the league. Tranmere had enough chances to register a cricket score. Graham Branch should have had a hat-trick. Branch put Rovers ahead before Trevor Morley struck twice to put Reading ahead. Ian Moore equalised with his third goal of the season.

Central defender Dave Higgins has had a two match ban lifted after the referee at the Oxford v Tranmere match admitted he was wrong to send off the Rovers stalwart. Some consolation for Rovers, who went on to lose the match 2-1. . .

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