BURNLEY have missed out on extending Richard Duffy's stay at the club.

The defender's two-month loan spell ended at the weekend and he has been recalled by Premiership Portsmouth.

Pompey boss Harry Redknapp's need for defensive cover in the wake of David Unsworth's forthcoming suspension forced him to recall Duffy yesterday and his return comes as a blow to Burnley boss Steve Cotterill, who is still struggling to raise a squad in the wake of a crippling injury crisis.

Even so, his side managed to beat Brighton 1-0 at the Withdean Stadium on Saturday, where Duffy was an unused substitute.

But Cotterill has praised the Welshman for his performances during the past two months.

He said: "I'd like to thank Richard for his contribution to Burnley and I'd also like to place on record my thanks to Harry Redknapp and Portsmouth for allowing Richard to play for us.

"Everyone at Burnley wishes him well for the future."

Duffy, 19, arrived at Turf Moor to make his debut as a sub in the 2-2 draw with Stoke City on September 25 and immediately established himself as a classy performer.

As well as playing full back he also filled in on the left side of midfield as Burnley's injury crisis deepened earlier this month.

But the former Swansea City player did a job in a more attacking role too and scored the winning goal in the Clarets' 2-1 victory at Leeds United.