REPUBLIC of Ireland international Niall Quinn, fit to play in this afternoon's home game against Coventry City, had consoling words last night for understudy striker Danny Dichio: "Don't worry, your chance will come."

Quinn, a Premiership ever-present this season, limped off at the end of the goalless draw at Aston Villa on Sunday with a slight knee ligament injury.

Dichio, who has had only one first team outing this season in the 2-1 Worthington Cup victory at Luton, was immediately put on stand-by.

But Dichio's hopes of a rare Premiership start were dashed when Quinn's injury responded to rest and treatment and he was given the all-clear to continue his partnership with England striker Kevin Phillips.

"I know Danny is waiting for his chance. I know what it feels like because I had the same situation at Arsenal for a couple of years behind Alan Smith when I only played about three times," said Quinn.

"But Danny looks great in training and his attitude is fantastic. It might seem strange coming from me but I do think he is in top shape to come in at any stage.

"If he does come in and does well then I've got to be fighting for my place. But that's what being at a successful football club is all about.

"The days of expecting to play week in and week out should not exist any more. Sure we all want first team football but that's not in the overall plan of things.

"Danny is fit as a fiddle now. He is bursting to go and has done everything which has been asked of him and it will happen for him. I can't be around for ever."

Quinn said he was unable to celebrate Arsenal's Championship win because he didn't feel he'd done enough to join in.

He said: "I was immature and I didn't realise the value of what I was doing.

"That's probably a difference. Danny is more mature than I was then and he sees it for what it is and he will be ready for his chance when it comes because he is fighting fit.

"I know a lot of clubs have been coming in trying to get him, but Peter Reid wouldn't dare part with him because he has done so well."

Reid confirmed that he has knocked back inquiries about the giant Londoner and appreciates his frustration at always being kept waiting in the wings.

He said: "He will get his chance - he has been a great pro but unfortunately you can only play 11.

"Danny has a terrific attitude but I think he is happy at the club, though I can understand his frustration.

"His goal record for us has been outstanding and he has proved to be a very reliable performer when he has been called upon.

"Once he gets his chance I think he will take it."

Quinn, meanwhile, is determined to end an eight-game barren run and add to the two goals he scored in the opening two games of the season.

He said: "As a striker you are never satisfied.

"I have come close to scoring in the last couple of games and while we've got an unbeaten run going when you've got the number nine on your back you want to be scoring goals.

"But I am enjoying my football - it is so precious to me now.

"The build-up on Thursday and Friday is very exciting. Before it used to pass me by and I didn't appreciate it.

"But when I look at the Stadium of Light and see the fans who come to watch us I know how important it is and I'm really enjoying it."