JOHN Mullin's injury jinx struck again last night to make him a doubtful starter for Burnley's trip to Millwall on Saturday.

And Tom Cowan was also on the treatment table today to threaten his possible comeback at the New Den.

Mullin picked up a calf injury and Cowan a hamstring strain as Burnley's reserves won 1-0 at Rotherham.

The problems were being assessed today with manager Stan Ternent confirming: "We'll have a look at them and see where they're up to."

This latest injury couldn't have come at a worse time for Mullin, who looked to be on the verge of a first-team comeback.

The summer signing from Sunderland has been used as a substitute in recent games but after a 45-minute appearance against Scunthorpe last Sunday was pushing for only his second start of the season against the Lions.

And Cowan may also be in contention for a re-call at left-back if his injury isn't too serious.

Ternent could also be contemplating another change for the trip to south London, where in-form Millwall are unbeaten in the League this season.

Burnley are fifth in the table and have only lost twice this season so there will certainly be no over-reaction to Sunday's disappointing result.

But with options available in his squad, Ternent may choose to switch things round for the first time in seven games. Taking the goal-scoring burden off Andy Payton's shoulders is one key area to address and the best way for Andy Cooke to rediscover the scoring touch may be back in the firing line alongside Payton. Ronnie Jepson was also back in training today following a calf strain, and he would offer another striking option within the 16 if Alan Lee again misses out with his twisted knee.

Burnley will find out their first-round opponents in the FA Cup when the draw is made at around 5.30pm on Saturday evening.

Cambridge United, who entertain Burnley at the Abbey Stadium next Tuesday night, have splashed out their biggest fee for six years, spending £40,000 on Stoke City midfielder Neil MacKenzie.

Former Clarets boss Jimmy Mullen has been appointed as manager of Dr Martens League side Merthyr Tydfill.

Burnley's youngsters are in cup action at Turf Moor again tonight (kick-off 7.15). Terry Pashley's side take on Mansfield in an FA Youth Cup first round replay after drawing 1-1 at Field Mill last week.

Burnley's squad is the same one that lost to Blackpool in the Lancashire Youth Cup on Monday night.

Burnley youth: Paxton, Pilkington, Fogarty, Savage, Davis, Leary, Barrett, Bowden, Shandran, Clark, Waine, Eves, A Davis, Licastri, Ingham.

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