NICKY Daws turned down the chance of a move to Gillingham this week.

And while around a quarter-of-a-million pounds would have been welcome in the cash-starved coffers at Gigg Lane, the Shakers will be happy to have the midfield man around for their Boxing Day clash with Burnley.

Daws, highly rated by Clarets boss Stan Ternent after serving him so well during their days together at Bury, is arguably the Shakers' most influential player.

The 29-year-old hasn't missed a game in over three seasons and will be one of the major threats to Burnley's chances of recording a third away win of the season.

Likely to be paired with Darren Bullock, the duo will make a formidable central midfield unit, while the Clarets will have to tinker with their's in the absence of the suspended Paul Cook.

If Lenny Johnrose gets the nod, then his battle with Daws will be fascinating as they know each other inside out, having played together at Bury and currently studying together for a sports science qualification.

Daws has seen three times the amount of action as Johnrose so far this season, with injuries and the Cook/Micky Mellon partnership keeping the Burnley man on the sidelines.

However, Johnrose has scored two goals to Daws' none and his match statistics from Opta compare favourably.

The pass completion rate is almost identical, while Johnrose's cross completion is vastly superior, albeit from far fewer attempts.

Daws scores in the running-with-the-ball department and has understandably made more tackles, blocks and clearances thanks to his greater number of games.

However, the successful tackle count is again similar and whoever shades the battle on Sunday, could help his side to victory.

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