STRIKER John Mullin could be poised for a shock return to Turf Moor, writes TONY DEWHURST.

I understand Clarets player-manager Chris Waddle could make a move for the 21-year-old striker as he attempts to bolster his front line attack with the clock ticking towards the start of the Second Division campaign.

Waddle - who will be without number nine Andy Cooke for the first week of the season - has several targets in mind but I understand that Mullin may be high on his hit list.

Waddle confirmed: "I've made several enquiries and it is all about getting the right striker to do the right job for us. I hope to have somebody in for this weekend's friendly against Manchester City."

The link with Mullin is an obvious one. The forward played alongside Waddle as Sunderland unsuccessfully fought for their Premiership lives last season.

Any future deal, though, is sure to hinge on whether Sunderland boss Peter Reid agrees to let go of Mullin - and for what sort of fee.

However, I believe the player would jump at the chance to return to Turf Moor.

Reid has already strengthened his attack with the £600,000 signing of Kevin Phillips from Watford and with the experienced Niall Quinn back in the frame after injury and further signings imminent, then Mullin's opportunities could be further restricted.

The return of Mullin to Turf Moor would be sure to delight Burnley fans who always had a lot of time for the youngster. Many of them were discontented to see such a promising player leave when he was transferred to Sunderland for a tiny £40,000 fee in August 1995 and it was no surprise to see Mullin prosper at Roker Park.

Mullin made several Premiership appearances for Sunderland last season and was due to be involved in tonight's friendly fixture against Ajax of Amsterdam as the Wearsiders open their new 40,000 capacity stadium at Wearmouth Colliery.

The striker signed professional terms with Burnley in August 1992 and quickly carved out an outstanding goalscoring reputation in the junior and reserve teams.

But a lack of first team opportunities under then manager Jimmy Mullen led Mullin to seek pastures new. Now he could be on his way back to Burnley and a link up with Waddle.

Gordon Cowans began work as Burnley's reserve team coach today. The ex-England international replaces Harry Wilson.

Chris Waddle and Glenn Roeder will be special guests at a Boundary Clarets charity evening at the Centre Spot on Monday which is limited to 300 with tickets £2 each.

Tickets are now on sale for tomorrow's attractive friendly fixture against Gremio of Brazil.

Tickets can bought in advance until 1pm tomorrow. Tickets will then be put on sale at the turnstiles for all areas. The Endsleigh Stand will be closed. Adults and children who wish to sit together must but tickets in advance and these will be on sale at the ticket office until kick-off time (7.45pm). Burnley are strongly advising fans to buy tickets in advance for tomorrow and the fixture against Manchester City.

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