ROYCE Brownlie sees his loan switch to Chester City as a massive' opportunity to delay his flight back to Australia.

The striker, pictured left, has been handed the chance to impress Mark Wright at the Deva Stadium and he knows it is an opportunity he must grab with both hands.

Following a trial game at Shrewsbury, Brownlie has now ventured north to see out the season.

That will have a huge bearing on whether the forward and his family stay put or jet off back to the sunshine.

With baby Rylan having just arrived, mum and dad must weigh up where is best for junior to spend his early years.

That hasn't yet been decided but a goalscoring spell with Chester would tip the balance firmly in favour of remaining on these shores.

Brownlie said: "Look, this is going to be massive for me.

"If I can do well for Chester then hopefully there is a chance to stand myself in good stead for next season in English football and get myself another contract here."

Brownlie started Town's first League Two encounter under Paul Sturrock's reign (the 1-0 win at Torquay United in November) but has been out in the cold ever since.

He said: "You just want to be playing football. It's a lot better than twiddling your thumbs.

"And as a footballer you want to be wanted and you ideally want options.

"If there's interest from English clubs and clubs back in Australia, then fine.

"You want to be in a position to have to make those choices."

Brownlie's old club. Brisbane-based Queensland Roar, have already expressed an interest in the man from Coffs Harbour but a deal at Chester until the beginning of May means there is no immediate need for a stick or twist decision.