A TRIO of key Clarets continue on the comeback trail tonight in the hope of giving boss Stan Ternent a selection headache ahead of the match against Walsall on Saturday.

Ian Cox, Lee Briscoe and Mitchell Thomas could all be in line to face Wrexham in a reserve match at Turf Moor tonight knowing Gordon Armstrong's place in the heart of the defence is up for grabs.

Armstrong will miss the clash with the Saddlers as he is suspended following his dismissal against Manchester City and boss Stan Ternent will be hoping to have a variety of options at his disposal. Cox has missed the last two games with tendonitis in his Achilles' and if he is able to make his return to action it would be timely.

The experienced Thomas got as far as the bench for Saturday's game against Rotherham United after a full 90 m inutes for the reserves a week ago and he could benefit from another run out tonight.

Versatile Briscoe was unavailable against the Millers after suffering a hamstring strain in the win at Bradford City but he is also looking to put himself in the frame for Saturday's visit by Walsall. Tonight's match against Wrexham kicks off at 7.15pm.

Meanwhile, Rochdale's teenage sensation Kevin Townson, a potential target for the Clarets, produced another eye-catching display at Spotland last night with two goals in the dramatic Worthington Cup tie against Fulham.

The 19-year-old came off the bench to give the third division leaders the lead.

That was before a late equaliser meant penalty heartache for Rochdale.

Townson's heroics were watched by a host of scouts from clubs in the top two divisions and all left with glowing reports to file.

But the youngster is turning a deaf ear to all the whispers that he is destined for big things and is more concerned about getting a place in the starting line-up, beginning with the game against Scunthorpe on Saturday.

"I have heard that scouts have been looking at me but I don't take any notice," said Townson, who was playing Sunday League football just over a year ago.

"If what I am doing comes off, it comes off, but I don't worry about it. As for getting into the starting line-up, well that comes down to the manager and what he decides."

That man, Steve Parkin, believes he has unearthed a diamond in Townson but he insisted: "I still think a full game is too much for him at this level because of the physical demands.

"But I have worked with him the last 12 months and I think he is as bright as any young striker in the country. He is a goal scorer and a goal poacher and we have high hopes for him."