Burnley likely to be without key trio

Burnley will be without the suspended Dean Marney in their top-of-the-table clash with leaders Leicester City tomorrow (kick-off 12-15 p.m.).
Big blow: Midfield lynchpin Dean Marney is suspended for the next two games after collecting 10 bookingsBig blow: Midfield lynchpin Dean Marney is suspended for the next two games after collecting 10 bookings
Big blow: Midfield lynchpin Dean Marney is suspended for the next two games after collecting 10 bookings

And Danny Ings and Keiran Trippier are not expected to return from injury.

Marney picked up his 10th booking of the season in the 2-0 win against Doncaster on Tuesday night, and will start a two-match ban against the Foxes, also taking in the trip to Watford a week tomorrow.

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But manager Sean Dyche insists it is merely a chance for another member of his squad: “That’s the reality. I think there have been some blows recently haven’t there? Everyone keeps saying.

“But the machine keeps rolling and that’s what I’m looking for it to do.

““It’s a great opportunity for others to step in and do well.

“I don’t overthink it, it’s just the reality of having a small squad and what happen.”

(Possibility of Danny and Kieran back for Saturday)

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Ings has missed the last three games with a sprained ankle, and Trippier has a hamstring problem, but, asked if they had a chance for Saturday, Dyche admitted: “I doubt it. Not Danny. Kieran’s going well, he’s improving, but we have got a number of games left and we have got to make sure we’ve got as many bodies fit for that.

“He’s more touch and go.

“Danny will be a bit of time yet, but he’s moving nicely.

“Tripps is in front of that curve so we’re happy with that.”

Ashley Barnes left the field late on on Tuesday night, but should resume tomorrow: “It’s just a knock on his knee.”

Burnley can go top tomorrow if they can win by two or more goals, but Dyche, as ever, is just focused on being ready: “It’s a chance to deliver another performance. That’s how I look at it.

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“It’s been a key to our feel within the group all season - a chance to go and deliver again, when the whistle blows, we’re ready. We’ve been ready for every game this season, it’s important we’re ready again.”

Doncaster boss Paul Dickov admitted he feels Burnley will be in the Premier League next season, but Dyche added:

“They’re kind words, but the reality is we’ve had a focus on every game as it comes all season. Old cliche or not, that’s the mantra to the players.

“Enjoy the win, but the day after we start refocusing.”