THERE are some massive games coming up for Burnley over Christmas and New Year, starting with Chesterfield at home on Boxing Day.

And, at an individual level, it could also be crunch time for Paul Smith.

The 21-year-old left winger has yet to cement a regular place in the Burnley line-up, despite the fact that, physically, he seems to have come back well from the injury which hit him on the eve of the new season.

With Burnley struggling in a poor run of results, which threaten to leave them at the foot of the Second Division table, it might be a surprise to some that a player of Smith's potential is not an automatic choice in the side.

But perhaps the depression that is hanging over the club at the moment is partly to blame for what player-manager Chris Waddle seems to perceive as something of a crisis of confidence.

It must be difficult for the younger players in the squad at the moment when results continue to go against the side and they see seniors struggling as well.

But, with Paul Weller out of the frame injured for the near future, this could be the time for Smith to make an impact.

Waddle pointed out: "He needs to be a bit sharper, it showed when he came on as a substitute against Wigan.

"He played okay for the reserves last week but, at the moment, we are in a bit of a dogfight and his confidence is not as good as it should be.

"But I have a few things in my mind and he could be in the frame."

Whoever plays for Burnley, there seems likely to be at least one familiar face in the Chesterfield ranks - striker David Reeves.

Having moved to Saltergate from Preston in a part-exchange deal earlier this season, Reeves is hoping to help Chesterfield further their promotion ambitions. They have failed to follow up last season's FA Cup exploits with another good run but will be looking to make up ground on the leaders after what was viewed as an unlucky defeat at Bristol City last Saturday.

Reeves is still fondly remembered by Burnley supporters for a loan spell - during his Sheffield Wednesday days - which produced eight goals in 16 League games.

How Waddle could do with someone like that in his present squad.

The striker played his first full game for a few weeks against Bristol City, after recovering from a knee injury, and looks set to retain his place.

Chesterfield boss John Duncan was disappointed with the result at Ashton Gate but far from despondent about the performance after his team went down to a penalty, which he regarded as debateable.

"I was pleased with our game and, after the way we took over in the second half, we deserved to come away with something," he said.

THERE are over 4,000 seats available for Clarets fans for the away game at Oldham on Sunday, December 28 (1pm kick-off). Admission is by payment on the day: Adults £12, concessions £5.

Only two stands - the Bob Lord and Endsleigh stands - will be open when the Autoglass Windscreens Trophy second round match against Notts County takes place at Turf Moor on Tuesday, January 6, 1998 (kick-off 7.45pm). Reduced prices are: Adults £7, concessions £3.

The Burnley ticket office, closed tomorrow, will open on Boxing Day from 9-15am-5pm and on Saturday, December 27, from 9-15am-1pm. It will be closed on Sunday and Monday. The club shop, also closed tomorrow, December 28 and 29, opens Boxing Day and Saturday 9am-5.30pm.

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