Burnley striker Paterson comes through first game

Martin Paterson has handed Burnley a timely boost after coming through unscathed in his first game in four months.
By The Newsroom
Published 30th Nov 2011, 12:47 BST

The Clarets striker completed the first 45 minutes of a specially arranged behind-closed-doors friendly against Wigan Athletic, watched by manager Eddie Howe.

Paterson, who pulled up in the opening league game of the season in August, having been restricted to just 14 appearances in the 2010/11 season with a similar problem, has since undergone lengthy treatment to endure a full recovery.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

That included a special procedure where his blood was ‘spun’ and re-injected to concentrate the platelets and improve its healing qualities.

And Howe will now hope the Northern Ireland international can step up his recovery to boost his attacking options ahead of the busy Christmas period.

Paterson hit the crossbar in the game at Wigan’s training ground, which the Clarets won 2-1 thanks to goals from Steven Hewitt and Zavon Hines.

In a squad mainly made up of Development Squad players, Hewitt gave Burnley the lead before half time, only for Hugo Rodallega to equalise for a strong Latics’ side after the break.

However, Hines then struck beat Chris Kirkland and earn the Clarets youngsters victory.

Related topics:Eddie HoweBurnleyWigan AthleticNorthern IrelandWigan