Clarets skipper Steve Davis was in line for his first start in five months when the reserves take on Preston North End at Lancaster tonight.

The club captain was a surprise inclusion on the bench against Birmingham last night and his rehabilitation could continue in Ronnie Jepson's side.

But having played the whole of the second half against the Blues, and with more than one eye on Saturday's crucial match against Norwich, Stan Ternent may prefer to give him more time on the training ground, despite his need for match practice.

Robbie Blake, like Davis battling for full fitness and a playing sub last night, is a more likely starter alongside the likes of Mitchell Thomas, Andy Payton and Brad Maylett.

Mark McGregor, who was a substitute at Turf Moor for the first time in a league game last night, will also feature and he could be in line for his first league game against Stockport a week on Saturday as Dean West is suspended.

The Clarets drew 2-2 with their Lancashire rivals at Turf Moor before Christmas with Dimitri Papadopulos getting both the goals.

Jepson's team have not played since they beat Oldham 2-1 earlier this month and with the first team games continuing to come thick and fast it is a good chance for a number of players to put themselves into manager Ternent's plans.